State Department of Transportation Announces Completion of $4.5 Million Project to Strengthen Four Bridges Along State Route 17 in Broome County

Contact: Anya Kardos, (518) 457-6400
Release Date: November 10, 2026

State Department of Transportation Announces Completion of $4.5 Million Project to Strengthen Four Bridges Along State Route 17 in Broome County

New Approach Slabs Deliver Smoother Rides, Safer Travel and Stronger Infrastructure for 42,000 Southern Tier Motorists Per Day

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez today announced the completion of a $4.5 million project to strengthen four bridges along State Route 17 in the Towns of Union and Vestal, Broome County, improving the ride for approximately 42,000 motorists who travel this vital Southern Tier corridor every day. The project replaced aging approach slabs on the eastbound and westbound bridges over Vestal Road and the Susquehanna River, creating smoother transitions on and off the structures, enhancing ride quality and extending the service life of bridges originally built in 1969 by up to 20 years.

“Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re making smart, targeted investments that strengthen the infrastructure that people count on, while enhancing public safety,” Commissioner Dominguez said. “By fortifying these four bridges we’ve extended the life of critical infrastructure in the Southern Tier while delivering a smoother, more reliable ride. This is what investing in the Southern Tier’s infrastructure is all about—keeping people moving and connected to the places that matter most.”

Delivered on schedule and on budget, this completed project will maintain a critical link to regional employers, local businesses, parks and recreational destinations, as well as higher education institutions, including Binghamton University.

Bridge approach slabs provide a smooth transition between the roadway and bridge deck, helping to create a smoother ride for drivers and their vehicles while protecting the structures from wear and the elements.

Exit 68 eastbound and the State Route 26 southbound on-ramp to State Route 17 eastbound previously closed to expedite the project’s construction. They were reopened in September to alleviate potential congestion with the start of the 2026-27 school year.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, “Thanks to $3.6 million in federal funding from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, these critical improvements will enhance driver safety, bridge longevity, and ensure Southern Tier residents have safer and smoother commutes. I applaud Governor Hochul for her work putting federal dollars to use and strengthening New York’s roads and bridges. I will never stop fighting to deliver the federal resources needed to invest in our local infrastructure across Upstate New York.”  

Congressman Josh Riley said, "Thousands of Upstate New Yorkers take Route 17 every day to get to work and school, visit friends and family, and stay connected across the Southern Tier. It’s great to see these bridge improvements be completed, making Route 17 safer, smoother, and stronger for years to come. I’m excited to keep working with state and local leaders to bring home federal resources for important projects like this one.”

Senator Lea Webb said, “Investing in our roads is more than an investment in infrastructure, it is an investment in public safety, in future generations, and in the beauty of our area. The Department of Transportation’s work to fortify four bridges along State Route 17 means that motorists will be safer and that our community will be more connected. New York State’s continued involvement in the Southern Tier is critically important, and I deeply appreciate this $4.5 million investment in our area.”

Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “This project marks an important investment in one of Broome County’s busiest highways. While extending the service life of these bridges by up to 20 years, drivers will also enjoy a smoother ride for themselves and their vehicles. I’d like to thank NYSDOT for their continued commitment to improving our region’s transportation infrastructure, especially when it comes to our aging bridges.”

Maria Sexton, Town Supervisor of Vestal, said, “We are incredibly grateful to the New York State Department of Transportation and especially Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez for this critical investment in our community’s infrastructure. The repair and improvement of the Route 26, Route 17, and Vestal Road ramps are vital to our local economy and daily lives. These upgrades ensure our residents can travel safely and quickly, while providing our local businesses with the efficient transportation network they need to thrive. Thank you, NYSDOT, for your continued commitment to investing in our area’s future.”

About the Department of Transportation

It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State.

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