$19.6 million, Rte. 85 road reconstruction project completed

Albany, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo revealed that the $19.6 million project to reconstruct a portion of Rte. 85 completed. The project made critical upgrades to the safety of the roadway by greatly improving drainage and the driving surface of the road.

“Route 85 is a key part of the Capital Region’s transportation network and this project has created a safer roadway for residents, commuters and visitors alike,” governor Cuomo said. “Transportation is vital to a robust economy and the improvements made to Rte. 85 are just a part of this administration’s work to rebuild critical infrastructure to help drive economic growth in every part of the state.”

This 2.2-mile pavement rehabilitation project replaced the deteriorated 1960s-era concrete pavement on Route 85 from the Route 85 Bridge over the New York State Thruway to Route 85’s terminus at Interstate 90. Work involved the full reconstruction of Route 85 from Western Avenue to I-90. Old concrete was removed and replaced with a new base and blacktop. Every culvert was upgraded or replaced throughout the length of the project, with new pipe linings included. New overhead signs were also installed.

Additionally, entrance and exit ramps throughout the project limits were repaved and the intersection of Lincoln Avenue, Zoar Avenue and the Route 85 ramps was improved with new pavement and converted to a full-way stop.

Motorists will continue to see construction signage over the next several weeks as minor post-construction operations are finished ahead of their scheduled November completion.