The I-81 Viaduct Project is anticipated to include eight contracts in total.  

Last year, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, alongside national, state, and local leaders, initiated the ground-breaking of the project.  

Major construction of the first two contracts is underway, focusing on reconstructing the existing I-81/I-481 northern and southern interchanges.

The I-81 Viaduct Project, estimated at $2.25bn, seeks to rectify the mid-20th-century decision to construct the viaduct through the city's core. 

Hochul said: “With the third contract now awarded, New York is quickly moving forward with this nation-leading project to tear down the viaduct. 

“The work in the Inner Harbor and on the north side of Syracuse will move the city one step closer to reconnecting neighbourhoods wrongly ripped apart generations ago.” 

The latest contract is valued at $218.9m and aims to replace the elevated motorway with a Community Grid to reconnect the city.

Other project features comprise the addition of nearly 800 new trees, decorative street lighting, and updated traffic signals, among others.  

Safety and mobility for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists are expected to be improved with the replacement of the Bear, Court, and Spencer Street bridges, connecting the north side to the Inner Harbor.  

These bridges will be replaced with wider structures that accommodate sidewalks and fit over the expanded future BL 81. 

Shared-use paths will also be included on the Court and Spencer Street bridges. 

The project further includes the installation of kerb bump-outs to reduce pedestrian crossing distances and enhance safety.  

The Community Grid is expected to alleviate current traffic congestion and improve interstate network access, fostering opportunities for inclusion and equity.