Route 304 bridge construction project delays frustrate drivers
Work on the Route 304 bridge replacement project in Nanuet remains underway, with state transportation officials saying the southbound side is expected to be completed this fall while local lawmakers continue to hear concerns from frustrated motorists.
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Construction continues on the Route 304 bridge replacement project as commuters and elected officials await progress on a project that has impacted one of Rockland County's major travel corridors.
The bridge passes over Interstate 287 in Nanuet.
Assemblyman Patrick Carroll said he continues to hear from constituents frustrated by the length of the project in his district and its effect on daily travel.
"Like every other driver on this roadway, [I am] frustrated. We want answers. We want better transparency. And we want better results from the DOT," Carroll said.
Carroll said the ongoing work has created challenges for drivers and residents who rely on Route 304.
"If you want to go to the diner. If you want to go anyplace on 304, this impedes your travel. And I feel you," said Carroll.
The New York State Department of Transportation said work on the southbound side of the bridge and the Palisades Interstate Parkway Exit 9W ramp is expected to be completed this fall. Crews would then shift their focus to the northbound side of Route 304.
In a statement, the Department of Transportation said, "The need for further ramp closures will be assessed as the project progresses and the Department is working with its contractors to conclude this critical project as quickly and seamlessly as possible."
Earlier this year, the Palisades Interstate Parkway exit ramp was forced to close again after officials determined the bridge required more work than originally anticipated during the first months-long closure.
"I think there was more repair work that they found under the bridge than originally expected," said state Sen. Bill Weber.
Weber said he remains in contact with the Department of Transportation about the project's status.
"Unfortunately, this 304 bridge project is taking much too long to finish, but there is an end in sight. We will keep monitoring it," Weber said.
