New York State Department of Transportation’s US Route 11 (Front Street) over I-81 at Exit 5

With the old US Route 11 Bridge continuing to weaken and deteriorate, New York State Department of Transportation’s $16 million project addressed bridge deficiencies while minimizing maintenance and life cycle costs. Interchange 5 of I-81 now meets interstate standards for acceleration/deceleration lane lengths, travel lane widths, and shoulder widths on the ramps and bridge. These improvements, along with the conversion of two signalized intersections to roundabouts, enhance safety and traffic flow in the area. As a result of smoother freight traffic movement, trucks delivering goods along the corridor experience less idle time at the roundabouts compared to the signals – significantly reducing noise and air pollution. A new multi-use path connects greenways to sidewalks and bike lanes along Route 11. This project connects more neighborhoods to educational opportunities at State University of New York-Broome Community College, businesses along the commercial corridor of Route 11, and recreational opportunities at a county park without adding vehicle traffic. Overall, the project improves the functionality of the interstate interchange, enhances bicyclist and pedestrian access, and reduces intersection accidents.