Binghamton Drivers Urged To Avoid Work Zone

The state Department of Transportation is asking for some help from Binghamton commuters over the next several months.

Agency officials are hoping people who routinely drive through the area of the Prospect Mountain construction project at the Route 17/Interstate 81 interchange will look for alternate routes, especially during morning and afternoon rush hours.

DOT regional director Jack Williams says work on the project will be increasing in the days ahead and delays are expected at times.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Williams said drivers should be aware of changing traffic patterns, including further lane reductions in the work zone.

Williams said some long-term ramp closures in the project area are needed so traffic can be shifted to accommodate bridge work in the weeks ahead.

About 70,000 vehicles pass through the 17/81 interchange in the city of Binghamton on a typical weekday.

DOT officials say construction-related delays can be minimized if the traffic volume passing through the work zone is reduced.

More information about the Prospect Mountain project is available here.