I-81, Route 481 Ramp, Lane Closures Affect Syracuse Traffic

The New York State Department of Transportation is implementing multiple ramp closures and lane reductions on Interstate 81 and Route 481 in Syracuse as part of the ongoing I-81 Viaduct Project, which involves removing the elevated highway through the city. Notably, the on-ramp from Sunset Avenue to I-81 northbound will be closed from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 29 to allow removal of the Bear Street bridge abutment and retaining wall, with a signed detour redirecting traffic via Sunset Avenue, Bear Street, and Lodi Street. Additionally, lane reductions on I-481 North and Route 481 North will occur overnight from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday in the towns of DeWitt and Cicero. Furthermore, from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weeknights through early August, portions of I-81 will be closed between exits 16A and 17 to facilitate demolition of the East Glen Avenue bridge, with detours in place for affected traffic. These closures and lane reductions are weather-dependent and subject to change, and motorists are urged to exercise caution in work zones where fines for speeding are doubled. Overall, these disruptions are part of a large infrastructure project aimed at improving safety and traffic flow through Syracuse.