Huron Plans Work On Endicott Elevated Walkway

Some cosmetic repair work is expected to be performed on a pedestrian walkway over McKinley Avenue in Endicott.

The elevated walkway at the Huron Campus occasionally has been struck by tall truck trailers.

Endicott Mayor John Bertoni said several weeks ago, a motorist advised him a chunk of concrete fell from the walkway and hit her car.

Bertoni wrote to Huron Real Estate Associates expressing concern about the safety of the structure. The mayor told WNBF News he believes the walkway can't be repaired and should be removed.

Huron president Christopher Pelto said the walkway does not pose an immediate safety hazard. He said a professional structural engineer inspected it Wednesday afternoon and confirmed that assessment.

Endicott fire chief Joseph Griswold, who oversees code enforcement for the village, said his inspection revealed no structural problems.

Pelto said Huron is planning to do some work on the exterior of the walkway. He said the job likely will start in June, when temperatures will be warm enough so coating materials can bond well.

Pelto said Huron does not intend to remove the walkway. He said although it's currently not in use, it would be important for potential future development if the old IBM buildings on the east side of McKinley Avenue are removed.

Although the walkway near North Street is no longer being used, another similar walkway near Watson Boulevard still is utilized by workers walking between Huron Campus buildings.

Pelto said he believes the posted height warnings on the approaches to the walkways are sufficient. He said when truck trailers have come into contact with the structure, it's been due to driver inattention. He said additional signage would not make a difference when drivers aren't paying adequate attention.

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