SYRACUSE -- As multiple construction projects are underway in Central New York, commuters have to leave some extra time to get to work.
Starting Monday, the left lane of I-81 southbound from the Butternut Street bridge to State St. will be closed. New York State Department of Transportation officials say the lane is closed so crews can perform emergency bridge deck repairs. A weak spot was found on the road.
They say drivers can expect significant delays for several weeks, especially during the morning and afternoon peak hours.
This is in addition to work that continues on I-690 eastbound, which is reduced to one lane between Exit 11 and Exit 12. The closure is because of bridge maintenance between West Genesee Street and I-81 southbound. That's expected to continue through late May.
Gene Cilento from the D.O.T says two holes were found on that road, and crews are working to repair them. He says every year after the winter, crews check for problem areas on Central New York roads. He says most of the roads in the area were built in the 1960s.
"I liken it to things on your house," says Cilento. "You need to replace the roof every 25 years. You need to replace your driveway every 25 years. You need to reseal your driveway every two years."
Updates on construction will be posted at 511NY.org.
Are these closures affecting you? How much extra time have you been leaving for your morning commute? Post your comments below.
