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Governor Hochul Launches $36.9 Million Project to Fix Up Fort Hamilton Parkway Bridges in Brooklyn
Brooklyn, NY – June 9, 2025 – Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that work is officially underway on a major project to rehabilitate bridges along Fort Hamilton Parkway in Brooklyn. The project, costing $36.9 million, aims to improve the safety and reliability of these vital transportation links for residents and commuters.
Why is this happening?
The bridges on Fort Hamilton Parkway, like many older bridges, have experienced wear and tear over time. This project will address structural issues, preventing further deterioration and ensuring the bridges can continue to safely handle traffic. Think of it like giving these bridges a much-needed tune-up and some structural reinforcements.
What will the project actually do?
The project will involve a comprehensive rehabilitation of multiple bridges along Fort Hamilton Parkway, potentially including:
- Concrete Repair: Cracks and damage in the concrete structure of the bridges will be repaired. This might involve patching, replacing sections of concrete, or applying special coatings to protect the surface.
- Steel Repair: If the steel beams and supports within the bridges are corroded or damaged, they will be repaired or replaced. This is crucial for maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity.
- Joint Replacement: The joints, which allow the bridge to expand and contract with temperature changes, will be replaced to ensure smooth transitions for vehicles and prevent water damage.
- Deck Rehabilitation: The driving surface of the bridge (the “deck”) may be resurfaced or even completely rebuilt to provide a smoother, safer ride for drivers.
- Drainage Improvements: Enhancing drainage systems to prevent water from pooling on the bridge and causing further damage.
- Safety Upgrades: The project may also include upgrades to the bridge railings, barriers, and lighting to improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
- Painting and Protective Coatings: Applying new paint and protective coatings to steel and concrete components to prevent corrosion and extend the life of the bridge.
What does this mean for Brooklyn residents and drivers?
While the project will ultimately improve transportation in the long run, there will likely be some short-term disruptions during construction. These could include:
- Lane Closures: Expect lane closures on Fort Hamilton Parkway and possibly on streets that run under or over the bridges. This could lead to increased traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Detours: There may be temporary detours set up to redirect traffic around work zones. Pay close attention to signage and traffic control personnel.
- Noise: Construction work can be noisy, especially during certain phases of the project.
- Extended Commute Time: It’s recommended to add extra time to your commute if you regularly use Fort Hamilton Parkway.
Why is this project important?
This investment is important for several reasons:
- Safety: It ensures the bridges are safe for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Economic Growth: Reliable infrastructure is essential for supporting the local economy and allowing businesses to thrive.
- Quality of Life: By improving the condition of these bridges, the project enhances the overall quality of life for residents of Brooklyn.
- Preservation: Preserves the integrity of bridges that provides a vital transportation link for years to come.
The bigger picture
This project is part of a larger effort by New York State to invest in infrastructure improvements across the state. Governor Hochul has made it a priority to modernize transportation systems, improve safety, and create jobs.
What to do
Be prepared for travel delays in the area. Check the NYSDOT website(dot.ny.gov) for real-time traffic updates, construction schedules, and detour information before travelling through the area.
In conclusion, while there might be some inconveniences during the construction phase, this $36.9 million investment in Fort Hamilton Parkway bridges is a crucial step towards ensuring a safer, more reliable transportation network for Brooklyn.
The AI has delivered the news.
The following question was used to generate the response from Google Gemini:
At 2025-06-09 20:59, ‘Governor Hochul Announces Work Underway on a $36.9 Million Bridge Rehabilitation Along Fort Hamilton Parkway in Brooklyn’ was published according to NYSDOT Recent Press Releases. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner. Please answer in English.
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