Gov. Hochul Provides Update On $18.4M I-87 Project In Rockland

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — After months of roadwork, the commute on a key stretch of the Thruway in the Hudson Valley looks like smooth sailing as the new year begins.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday the significant completion of an $18.4 million pavement improvement project on the NYS Thruway (I-87) in Rockland County, which is part of more than $451 million in capital investments set aside for the Thruway system this year.

Pavement repairs and resurfacing were completed on over 30 total lane miles along a five-mile stretch from north of exit 14A (New Jersey - Garden State Parkway) to south of exit 15 (New Jersey - I-287 - New Jersey Route 17 South). An estimated 116,000 vehicles travel this corridor each day.

"With continued investment in our transportation infrastructure, we're ensuring the Empire State remains reliable for all who travel it, from commuters to tourists to commercial vehicles," Hochul said. "The I-287 corridor through Rockland County and into Orange County is one of the most heavily used sections of the Thruway, and these ongoing roadway improvements will help enhance safety and advance economic opportunity in the Hudson Valley."

Over the last two years, the Thruway Authority has entirely repaved I-87 in both directions, along with interchanges, between the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge in Rockland County to just beyond exit 16 (Harriman - US Route 6 - NY Route 17) in Orange County. This work represents over 30 miles of roadway in each direction and nearly 200 total lane miles. The 2.4-mile stretch of Garden State Parkway Connector in Rockland was also repaved in 2022.

"Under Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership, the Authority’s Capital Program is investing approximately $503 million in infrastructure projects in the Hudson Valley over the next five years," Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, "Paving projects improve the roadway and make a difference to the quality of life by enhancing safety, building resiliency and extending the life of our system."

In addition, a $36.6 million pavement improvement project in Orange County covering 12 miles (48 lanes miles) between exits 16 in Harriman to 17 (Newburgh - Scranton - I-84 - NY Routes 17K and 300) in Newburgh is ongoing. Paving on the northbound lanes is complete, while repairs and paving in the southbound direction will occur next spring.

SEE ALSO: Thruway Repairs To Start Between Woodbury And Newburgh

"I join the many residents and commuters who travel between exit 14A and exit 15 in the Town of Ramapo expressing gratitude to Governor Hochul, the New York State Thruway Authority leadership for prioritizing the repair and resurfacing of these busy roads," State Senator Bill Weber said, "My office values its partnership with the Thruway Authority and is committed to advocating for continued road improvements, sidewalk additions, and sound barriers, where needed, in the 38th Senate District."

SEE ALSO: $18.4M Pavement Project Starting On NYS Thruway in Rockland

As part of the most recent Rockland County project, from milepost 24.0 to 29.4, crews worked on the stressed areas of the roadway in both directions and installed a two-inch asphalt overlay, including on the ramps at exit 14B (Airmont - Montebello - Airmont Road). Safety enhancements include new guide rail, bridge joint work, reflective line striping and replacing lane delineators.

"This $18.4 million investment highlights the dedication and hard work of the men and women at the New York State Thruway Authority who go above and beyond to keep our roads safe and in great condition," Assemblymember Karl Brabenec said. "The fresh pavement along this stretch of 287 in Rockland will make a real difference for the thousands of drivers who depend on it every day, many of whom are my constituents. I commend Governor Hochul and the Thruway Authority for their continued commitment to maintaining and improving our state’s infrastructure."