Governor Andrew Cuomo says construction has commenced for a $16.6 million community redevelopment project along the Route 5S corridor in Utica.
The project is designed to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists along the busy corridor. Operational and physical improvements include traffic-calming measures that will create an inviting and attractive new gateway to the Bagg’s Square neighborhood, which encompasses the central business district along Genesee St. and the historic Union Station, the governor’s office said in a statement.
“Upgrading the Route 5S corridor will enhance a major entrance to Utica and its neighborhoods, while improving safety for all travelers,” Cuomo said. “We will continue to invest in improvement projects like this, helping to rejuvenate communities, support local businesses and make New York an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”
The project calls for improving accessibility for people with disabilities, realigning the roadway, reducing the number of driving lanes, constructing a roundabout at the intersection of Route 5S and John St., and adding bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. Extending 0.7 miles from Broadway to Broad St., the project also will reconfigure intersections and shrink expansive ones to make them easier to navigate. All traffic signals will be upgraded, improving visibility and easing traffic flow.
In addition, the corridor will be extensively landscaped with 11 varieties of trees and 250 shrubs, with more than 9,000 plantings in total. Among other improvements, park benches and bike racks will be installed, as well as more than 100 lighting fixtures along the roadway and trails.
The project is scheduled for completion in late 2020.
