Long Energy Banner

State completes $3.2M bridge replacement project

0
Share

By Melanie Lekocevic

Capital Region Independent Media

COEYMANS — The state Department of Transportation completed a $3.2 million construction project that replaced the Route 144 bridge over the Hannacrois Creek.

The original bridge was built in 1931 and was replaced with a modern steel and concrete structure that will enhance public safety and improve mobility along a key route, state officials said.

“This project along State Route 144 not only created a stronger, more climate resilient structure over the Hannacrois Creek but by utilizing the latest construction techniques and materials, DOT is working to make the structure more sustainable and less subject to corrosion which, in turn, reduces long-term maintenance costs and enhances the viability of the infrastructure,” DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said in a statement.

The contract to replace the bridge was awarded in November 2021, according to the DOT website, and the bid came in at $3,157,399.

The bridge connects southeastern Albany County and the Port of Coeymans with the city of Albany and the New York State Thruway.

The bridge is also extensively used by cyclists as well as residents and visitors looking to access nearby boating, fishing, camping and other recreational activities, according to the state. The new bridge was designed with wider shoulders than the original span to better accommodate pedestrians and others.

“Maintaining physical infrastructure is extremely important and is integral in providing safety and efficiency to our constituents,” Albany County Legislator Zachary Collins, R-Coeymans, said. “I’m very thankful the state Department of Transportation allocated resources to not only replace the bridge but to make it more accommodating for pedestrians and cyclists.”

Construction began in March 2023 and used an “integral abutment design,” meaning the bridge deck and abutments were built as one piece, which eliminated the need for expansion joints and bearings, according to the DOT.

The lack of joints and bearings provides added protection from stormwater seepage and corrosion and reduces maintenance costs over time. The bridge’s design also used a thin layer of molten metals sprayed onto the steel portions of the bridge instead of paint, which is also aimed at decreasing the cost of maintenance and repairs, according to DOT.

“I’m grateful for New York state’s investment into the maintenance and strengthening of our bridges, and I’m grateful to the men and women who toiled on the ground to deliver these excellent results to us today,” Assemblyman Chris Tague, R-102, said. “Our community is all for the better with the work they’ve done to keep our bridge operational.”

Repairing and replacing outdated infrastructure is critical to the community, Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy said.

“In addition to revitalizing a crucial transportation corridor, the completion of this long-awaited bridge project along State Route 144 has improved access for locals and visitors to take advantage of recreational opportunities,” McCoy said. “I appreciate the ongoing support provided by the New York State Department of Transportation and Gov. [Kathy] Hochul. By prioritizing these projects, we are constructing a more modern and resilient transportation system that is ready to take on the challenges of the future.”

Related Posts