Drivers get ready. A $30 million rehabilitation project for the Skyway will cause big changes in traffic. Starting in late April, both inbound lanes will be closed for the rest of the construction season. There will be no two-way traffic during commute times. Everything will be inbound during the AM commute and all traffic will be outbound during the PM commute. Drivers will have to use alternate routes if going in a different direction during those times.
The same thing will happen again next year when the outbound lanes will be closed for re-decking. Construction completion is expected in July 2020.
Even though studies are looking at options to the Skyway, the maintenance had to be done, said Susan Surdej, public information officer for the NYS Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).
However, Congressman Brian Higgins (D-Buffalo) is not happy. Higgins wrote to NYSDOT last August asking the department to spend money to synchronize traffic signals on alternate routes such as Ohio Street, Seneca Street and South Park Avenue. He also wanted digital signs installed, like those on the Thruway, informing drivers of the quickest way into downtown Buffalo.
The Congressman said his request went unanswered and he criticized NYSDOT during a morning press conference.
NYSDOT disagreed with Higgins' comments saying it is coordinating with the City of Buffalo about detour routes and traffic signals.
7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly has more in his report.
