Grand Island: Overpass work resumes

By Karen Carr Keefe

Senior Contributing Writer

Work has resumed on the Beaver Island Parkway overpass to the I-190 Thruway on Grand Island.

“The next step in the project is to install the structural rebar and pour the concrete bridge deck,” said Public Information Officer Jessica Mazurowski of the New York State Thruway Authority. “The recent weather has allowed the contractor to do some prep work, but pouring the concrete bridge deck requires temperatures to remain more consistent to obtain the highest quality final product.”

Mazurowski said that will probably happen in the next few weeks.

She said the project is scheduled to be complete this spring.

 Many motorists have eagerly awaited the restarting of the bridge replacement project that, when completed, will restore Exit 18B at the south end of the Island.

The $8 million project began in March 2023 under at contract with Union Concrete and Construction Corp. of West Seneca.

A detour has been in effect that takes motorists along Staley and Stony Point roads to their various destinations. The old bridge, built in 1954, had carried 13,000 vehicles per day over the I-190. The new bridge will have wider traffic lanes, emergency shoulders, a new guide rail, new riding surface, and increased vertical clearance. Prep work continues prior to paving.

The project has involved constructing embankments, erosion and sedimental controls, special foundations and load-bearing elements, structural steel and steel joist framing. Exterior improvements are to include bases, ballasts, fences, gates, retaining walls, signage, electrical work and exterior lighting.

Work is underway again on the Beaver Island Parkway overpass project. The general contractor is Union Concrete and Construction Corp. of West Seneca, under contract with the New York State Thruway Authority. Seen in the photos is an overview of work being done Tuesday under sunny skies. The milder weather has allowed work to resume. (Photos by K&D Action Photo and Aerial Imaging)