VIDEO TRANSCRIPT: Navigating the I-81 Viaduct Project: Essential tips for Syracuse commuters
Mya Alysia: Interstate 81 is key for drivers getting around the Syracuse area, but with the I-81 viaduct project, reconstruction comes with inconvenience.
According to the New York State Department of Transportation, some parts of the interstate are decaying, don’t meet design requirements, and have undergone multiple accidents since being built in the early 1950s.
Since the 2.25 Billion dollar project began for the 12-mile passage, drivers are steered in many ways.
Commuters: I try to plan like 15 to 10 minutes ahead of time. It was difficult to, like, get out on the right exit. Yea them exits is terrible. Lane, lane splitting is really bad. If its bad, I’ll just get off an exit and make my own way.
Alysia: It doesn’t have to be that way. Here are the ways to get around as construction continues.
Be prepared for lane closures and move to an open lane immediately.
While on the road, keep a good distance from other drivers.
Watch for signs, because sometimes your GPs isn’t up-to-date.
The waze app also allows users to customize routes.
Some options include avoiding toll roads, difficult intersections and unpaved roads.
To find out more about construction, the I-81 app provides real-time updates.
Mya Alysia, Autumn Ryan, Shariden Truly.
NCC News.
By: Mya Alysia, Shariden Truly, and Autumn Ryan
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – For many drivers in Central New York, Interstate 81 is a crucial route for daily commutes in the Syracuse area. The ongoing $2.25 billion I-81 Viaduct project has made detours and delays the new normal.
The New York State Department of Transportation said parts of the interstate are decaying, don’t meet design requirements and have experienced multiple accidents since construction in the 1950s.
Construction stretches across a 12-mile corridor, forcing drivers to navigate confusing detours and unexpected lane closures. One frequent commuter, Keith Kobland, said his daily travel time has significantly increased as a result of the ongoing construction.
“My daily route is using I-481, accessing the highway via Soule Road, taking it to I-81 South and then exiting at Harrison/Almond,” said Kobland. “If I hear of traffic backups, I’ll use I-481 to go all the way around the city, but it adds close to 10 extra miles to my trip.”
Navigating through construction zones doesn’t have to be challenging. With more planning and the help of navigation apps, Syracuse drivers can still get to their destinations smoothly and, more importantly, safely.
One navigation app that may help with drivers’ commute is Waze. The app allows users to customize their routes and has a helpful feature that lets drivers avoid toll roads, difficult intersections and unpaved routes.
The I-81 Connect Mobile app is recommended by NYSDOT. The app gives residents real-time updates on the project which keeps drivers informed.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration notes these safety tips for commuters:
Stay alert for lane closures
Drivers should watch for signs that alert them of lane closures. Moving out of the closed lane as soon as possible helps avoid potential collisions or disputes with other drivers.
Maintain a distance
To avoid accidents, drivers should maintain space between their vehicles and others ahead. Drivers should never cut off trucks or buses.
Watch for construction workers
Watch for construction workers and maintain work zone speeds to prevent accidents. Following these precautions also helps drivers avoid fines.
Watch for posted signs
Navigation apps such as Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze may not always reflect the most updated traffic changes. Due to the constant construction, lane changes or routes may not stay the same. It is safest to follow the posted signs and directions given by construction workers.
Plan ahead
Being late happens from time to time, but road construction can make delays more frequent. To combat that, give yourself about 10 to 15 minutes of extra time for traffic and construction.
Use alternate routes
Taking different routes around construction zones can save time during your commute. Routes like I-481 or Route 11 will help bypass traffic congestion, and taking a different route can minimize the risk of accidents.
“I abhor the elevated section of I-81 through downtown,” said Kobland. “I once got into an accident on this section of roadway and consider it to be very dangerous.”
The I-81 Viaduct Project is expected to bring major improvements to the Syracuse community, but with that progress will come temporary growing pains.
For real-time updates and more information, visit the I-81 Connect app. The project is expected to be completed at the end of 2028.