Don’t Even THINK of Driving on the Lester Avenue Bridge

The large "Bridge Closed" signs at a Lester Avenue construction site in Johnson City aren't deterring some people from trying to cross the span over the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks.

A $2.5 million bridge rehabilitation project is nearing completion but the job isn't finished yet.

A few people have walked across the bridge while construction operations have been underway. And village Mayor Martin Meaney said there was one incident in recent days where a motorist tried to drive across the span.

The driver ignored the signs provided detour directions and making it clear the bridge was still closed. The vehicle entered through an opening at the work site used by construction equipment.

Thomas Anderson of Vector Construction said paving of the bridge is scheduled to start on Saturday. He said paving operations may continue on Monday if necessary.

After the paving has been completed, some grooving, sealing and striping work will be performed on the bridge deck. Guiderails and some signage also will be installed.

The bridge has been closed since April. Anderson said it's expected to reopen by the end of the month.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.