An expensive project to strength a sinking Interstate 81 bridge on Binghamton's North Side may continue for more than two additional months.

The state Department of Transportation closed several blocks of Chenango Street to through traffic three weeks ago for the construction work.

According to an agency spokesman, the final cost of the project is estimated at $3.5 million.

In a statement he said "the first of three concrete pours designed to strengthen the arch from underside" has been completed." He said workers "are continuing to prepare the rest of the arch for the second and third placements."

The construction is being confined to the area under the arch on Chenango Street. It's not expected to affect I-81 traffic.

The general contractor for the project is Slate Hill Constructors of Onondaga County.

The DOT statement said "the department is currently reviewing options to pursue cost recovery."

State officials have not indicated whether they believe design or construction problems are to blame for the sinking of the bridge, which was built in 2013 using precast concrete sections.

Chenango Street now is expected to be fully reopened by mid to late December. The construction schedule could be affected by weather.

Construction work under an Interstate 81 bridge in Binghamton on October 1, 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
Construction work under an Interstate 81 bridge in Binghamton on October 1, 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
loading...
Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

See the Must-Drive Roads in Every State

 

Goosebumps and other bodily reactions, explained

 

More From 99.1 The Whale