Binghamton I-81 Lane Closures for Work Near the “Big Dip” Zone

Drivers should watch out for lane closures on Interstate 81 and Route 17 near the Brandywine Highway in Binghamton.

According to the state Department of Transportation, the traffic pattern changes will start Saturday.

I-81 southbound will be reduced to a single lane starting at Exit 13. Route 17 eastbound will be reduced to one lane beginning at Exit 72.

The lane reductions will extend to the bridge over the Brandywine Highway. According to a DOT announcement, the changes will be in effect for about two weeks "to facilitate pavement repairs."

Although the planned work will occur near a section of the highway with an ongoing problem of sinking pavement, it is not intended to address the cause of that issue.

People driving in that area in recent years had noticed what some called a "big dip" in the highway.

The DOT last month advised WNBF News that crews were working to deal with "settlement issues that were similar to what occurred a year ago at this location."

The agency is working to determine what long-term repairs are needed on the highway.

A statement provided by the Binghamton DOT regional office Friday afternoon:

The New York State Department of Transportation continues to address settlement issues at this location. Workers will be replacing concrete on that small section of highway with asphalt. Analysis of the site continues.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.