Work Resuming on Binghamton Interchange Project

Construction is about to get underway on the highway interchange reconstruction project at Prospect Mountain in Binghamton.

The state Department of Transportation is alerting drivers to delays and changes in traffic patterns in the area of the Route 17/Interstate 81 interchange.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, DOT regional director Jack Williams said the project will address "operatonal deficiencies" at the interchange and will replace aging bridges.

Williams said a lot of work was accomplished during the past construction season and much more is planned this season.

The DOT has worked to coordinate the project with the New York State Police and other law enforcement and emergency response agencies.

Williams is encouraging local drivers to make plans to try to avoid the construction zone as much as possible by using alternate routes.

Lane restrictions in coming weeks are expected to cause traffic delays in the work area. Delays may be minimized if traffic volume on Route 17 and Interstate 81 can be reduced.

Motorists can keep posted on the project's progress by visiting the DOT Prospect Mountain Construction Facebook page.