Cauterskill Road bridge reopens in Catskill

CATSKILL, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- The Cauterskill Road bridge replacement is complete, Gov. Kathy Hochul's Office announced Thursday. The previous 60-year-old bridge was replaced with a modern structure and features new safety measures.

In April, Hochul announced the $4.4 million bridge replacement project over the Thruway in Greene County. Approximately 870 vehicles drove over the bridge daily.

Since April 1, a 12-mile detour was put in place with new traffic lights at the end of West Main Street. On Wednesday, detours through Jefferson Heights and on to State Route 9W and West Main Street were no longer in effect.

"The completion of the Cauterskill Road Bridge represents New York’s continued commitment to enhancing our transportation system and ensuring that our motorists commute on safe and reliable roads," Governor Hochul said. "This bridge replacement will not only improve the quality of our roadways but enrich the overall experience for all individuals traveling through our state."

The new bridge features an increased vertical clearance from 14 feet and nine inches to 16 feet and eight inches, new asphalt, an updated safety guardrail and snow fencing. Bette & Cring, LLC of Latham was the project contractor selected after a competitive bidding process by the New York State Thruway Authority.

"The completion of this replacement bridge, which has stood for over 60 years, reflects our commitment to modernization and structural safety. Infrastructure investment projects enhance the durability of the Thruway system and improve safety for motorists," New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said.

The Cauterskill Road bridge was one of dozens on the Thruway that needed to be replaced. According to the Thruway Authority, the increased investment into capital projects will lead to work on approximately half of the Thruway’s more than 2,800 lane miles as well as projects on approximately 90 of Thruway’s 817 bridges.