Major Pavement Improvement Project To Commence This Summer
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the commencement of an $18.4 million pavement improvement project on the New York State Thruway (I-87) in Rockland County. This extensive project will enhance over 30 lane miles on a five-mile stretch from just north of exit 14A (New Jersey – Garden State Parkway) to just south of exit 15 (New Jersey – I-287 – NJ Route 17 South) in the town of Ramapo. This segment of the Thruway supports approximately 116,000 vehicles daily.
“New York State continues to invest in its transportation infrastructure, ensuring safe and reliable roadways for residents and visitors,” said Governor Hochul. “Such projects are crucial for facilitating smooth daily commutes and bolstering local economies through the efficient movement of goods and services.”
Frank G. Hoare, Thruway Authority Executive Director, highlighted the importance of this project, stating, “This is a critical investment in one of the Thruway’s busiest corridors, heavily utilized by both commuters and commercial vehicles. Our focus remains on using toll revenue to upgrade and modernize our aging infrastructure.”
The project is part of the Thruway Authority’s Capital Program, which allocates approximately $377.4 million for infrastructure projects in the Hudson Valley from 2024 to 2028. Initial work will involve full-depth pavement repairs on the most deteriorated sections (milepost 24.0 to 29.4) in both directions, enhancing the roadway’s structural integrity. Additionally, less damaged areas will receive a new two-inch asphalt overlay, improving the driving experience, including ramps to and from exit 14B (Airmont – Montebello – Airmont Road).
Safety enhancements will include the installation of new guiderails, bridge joint repairs, drainage improvements, reflective line striping, and new lane delineators. Paving operations will primarily occur overnight on weekdays to minimize traffic disruptions. However, motorists may still encounter lane closures, traffic shifts, and stoppages during construction, which is weather-dependent and subject to change.
JRCRUZ Corp. has been selected as the project contractor following a competitive bidding process, with the project expected to be completed by the end of the year.
The Thruway Authority’s 2024 Budget includes a $451 million investment to support its Capital Program, which will allocate $2.4 billion to capital projects over the next five years. This investment aims to address approximately half of the Thruway’s 2,800 lane miles and approximately 90 of its 817 bridges.
Given that 85 percent of the Thruway’s roadway base dates back to its original construction in the 1950s, substantial maintenance, reconstruction, and rehabilitation are necessary to maintain good repair standards. In 2023 alone, motorists took over 396.9 million trips and drove 8.1 billion miles on the Thruway, which operates without dedicated federal, state, or local tax funding, relying instead on toll revenue.
To enhance work zone safety, Governor Hochul signed legislation establishing the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program. Launched in April 2023, this program uses speed cameras in active construction zones to enforce speed limits, with clear signage indicating enforcement areas. Violations will result in fines sent to the vehicle’s registered owner by mail.
The Thruway Authority maintains one of the nation’s safest and most cost-effective superhighway systems, funded entirely by toll dollars.
Numerous State officials responded favorably to the project:
State Senator Bill Webber: “Partnering with Governor Hochul to improve Rockland County’s infrastructure is an honor. The $18.4 million project will significantly enhance I-87, benefiting all who travel this route.”
Assemblymember John McGowan: “This is great news for our residents and everyone using the Thruway. Ensuring safe passage on I-87 is crucial given the traffic volume. I urge everyone to remain aware and cautious around work zones.”
Assemblymember Karl Brabenec: “Ramapo has long awaited these improvements. The funding will ensure our roads remain durable and safe for years. Thanks to Governor Hochul and the dedicated workers completing this project by year’s end.”
Motorists are urged to stay alert and follow posted work zone speed limits, where fines for speeding are doubled.