Interstate 81 was built almost five decades ago, with the third part finished in 1969.

It has since served as an integral part of the success of downtown Syracuse and hospitals and institutions in University Hill.

The I-81 is a national and international north-south trade route, stretching from Tennessee to the Canadian border. This connectivity is essential and influences the livability, economic vitality, and sustainability of the Syracuse metropolitan region. 

However, road conditions are deteriorating and do not meet the current engineering or safety standards, and this is especially true for the 1.4-mile elevated section, or "viaduct" near downtown Syracuse.

The I-81 Viaduct Project will also help meet transportation needs and provide transportation infrastructure to support long-term planning efforts (such as the SMTC LRTP, Syracuse Comprehensive Plan, and others). 

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) intends to demolish the viaduct carrying Interstate 81 into downtown Syracuse, reroute the highway onto the existing route of I-481 loop around the city, and construct what officials have dubbed a "community grid," with at-grade local streets in place of the viaduct. 

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant milestone in the state’s ambitious $2.25 billion project to overhaul the I-81 Viaduct in Syracuse. A $313.5 million contract has been awarded to CNY Alliance. CNY Alliance is a joint venture of A. Servidone Inc., B. Anthony Construction Corp., Rifenburg Construction Corp., and Crane-Hogan Structural Systems Inc. were chosen as the successful bidder. It had previously won the second-phase contract of the project amounting to $384.5 million.

The project's core objective is to improve mobility and accessibility, facilitating hassle-free travel between downtown Syracuse and the University Hill district, a thriving hub of employment, medical services, and higher education. The new roadway will serve as a vital artery, connecting residents, students, faculty, and professionals to essential amenities, businesses, and cultural attractions.

The newly granted contract includes the construction of a new junction between westbound I-690 and Crouse Avenue and the widening of the local roadway in downtown Syracuse to add a northbound lane. It also includes another interchange between eastbound I-690 and Irving Avenue and the renovation of Irving Avenue. 

It will run parallel to Crouse with an additional southbound lane to accommodate extra traffic and extend beyond where it currently stops. The contract also includes drainage and wastewater infrastructure improvements, two bridge replacements, and various street and sidewalk enhancements. 

By implementing a sophisticated system that separates stormwater from sanitary sewage, the project will mitigate the risk of overflows, reduce pollution, and improve the overall environmental health of the city.

Pedestrians and cyclists will also reap the benefits of this project. CNY Alliance will incorporate state-of-the-art pedestrian and cyclist amenities, including dedicated bike lanes, shared-use paths, and upgraded sidewalks and crosswalks.

These initiatives will create a safer and more inviting environment for non-motorized transportation, promoting a healthier and more sustainable community.

It is important to note that this contract marks the fourth phase of the eight-phase I-81 project. Governor Hochul believes this comprehensive overhaul will catalyze economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life for Syracuse residents. 

By investing in modern infrastructure and creating a more connected and accessible city, the state plans to position Syracuse as a thriving urban center and a desirable destination for businesses, students, and families.