SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Drivers in Syracuse are facing new traffic delays as construction continues on the I-81 viaduct project.
Starting Monday, April 21, through Friday, May 2, southbound I-81 will be reduced to one lane daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The lane reductions will stretch from Exit 23A to Exit 20.
Local commuter Ben Malkic says the changes have already impacted his routine.
“I know they are doing important work, trying to improve the quality of streets,” Malkic said.
But the reduced lanes are still causing frustration during busy hours.
“That does make my drive to class every day just that little bit longer,” he said. “Sometimes, I do even panic when I’m stuck in that work traffic in the mornings.”
The New York State Department of Transportation is urging drivers to plan ahead, leave early, and expect slowdowns throughout the construction period.
AUDIO TRANSCRIPT: I-81 lane closures causing traffic delays in Syracuse
Lucy Gonzalez: Lane reductions on I-81 are slowing down traffic in Syracuse as construction continues on the viaduct project. NCC News reporter Charlie Neidell has more.
Charlie Neidell: Starting Monday, April 21, through Friday, May 2, southbound I-81 will be reduced to one lane daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The work stretches from exits 23A through 20. Ben Malkic says the delays have already affected his routine. He says they are fortunate to be working during school and work hours, or else the impact could be even greater.
Ben Malkic: I know they are doing important work, trying to improve the quality of streets.
Neidell: He says even a small change in his commute has been stressful—especially on busy mornings.
Malkic: But that does make my drive to class every day just that little bit longer. Sometimes, I do even panic when I’m stuck in that work traffic in the mornings.
Neidell: The Department of Transportation is advising drivers to plan ahead and expect slowdowns while the work is underway. For NCC News, I’m Charlie Neidell.