The closure of a busy exit ramp is slowing traffic during peak travel times in Endwell.

In recent days, rush hour backups have resulted in significant delays for westbound drivers on Route 17C, which becomes East Main Street.

Construction crews are working on a new phase of a project to replace a bridge over Patterson Creek.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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The exit to Hooper Road has been taken out of service. With the ramp closed, motorists who are heading to Hooper Road now must make a left turn. That turn can be made only when a traffic signal provides a left-turn arrow.

Vehicles waiting to make the turn are causing congestion, especially during the late afternoon hours.

The state Department of Transportation has installed a message board alerting drivers to be prepared to stop.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, DOT regional director Jack Williams said the Hooper Road ramp is expected to reopen in a few weeks.

The agency is encouraging motorists who are traveling to Endicott to use alternate routes to avoid delays and reduce congestion.

Westbound drivers on Route 17 who are heading to Endicott may wish to avoid the Route 17C exit in Endwell and utilize the Route 26 exit in Vestal.

Work on the bridge replacement project started last spring. A new span for eastbound traffic on Route 17C now is in use. The westbound section of the new bridge is to be completed next year.

The old bridge was built in 1932.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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