New York Construction Report staff writer
Major construction is underway on a $47 million project to renew a key stretch of State Route 17 in the Town of Owego, Tioga County. The two-year project will resurface approximately 22 miles of pavement and rehabilitate two bridges to improve mobility and resiliency along the highway, which has been impacted by years of harsh winter weather and heavy traffic.
The project will create more than 600 construction jobs and includes a Project Labor Agreement “to ensure workers are treated and paid fairly”.
“This project is a long-needed repair of a heavily traveled route and will be greatly appreciated by all. I am very thankful NY State is investing in infrastructure in Tioga County,” said Owego Mayor Michael Baratta III.
The project includes resurfacing the roadway and upgrade guiderails on State Route 17 from Exit 65 in Owego to the Broome County line. Paving will involve a warm mix asphalt, which reduces costs and improves pavement performance and durability compared to traditional hot mix asphalt applications. The two bridges that carry State Route 17 over Apalachin Creek will also be rehabilitated with new road decks, concrete barriers and bearings to further enhance safety and resiliency.
Work will stretch over the next two construction seasons and the highway will remain open while work is underway, but motorists should expect the following lane restrictions and traffic patterns:
During the 2024 construction season, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction separated by a concrete barrier and westbound traffic will be crossed onto the eastbound side.
Beginning in the spring of 2025, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction separated by a concrete barrier and eastbound traffic will be crossed over the westbound side.
