[an error occurred while processing the directive] [an error occurred while processing the directive]
[an error occurred while processing the directive]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE03-47

September 5, 2003

Contact: Ian Michaels (718) 595-6600

New Schoharie Bridge Officially Opened On Route 990V In Gilboa, NY

Ribbon Cutting At Dedication Of $3.9 Million Structure

New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Christopher O. Ward was among the guests who cut the ribbon today to signify the opening of the new Schoharie Bridge on Route 990V in Gilboa, New York. The ribbon-cutting was followed by a reception at Gilboa Town Hall.

The new bridge, which was replaced by the DEP as part of its Upstate Bridge Reconstruction Program, cost $3.9 million. The two-lane, 225-foot span replaces a 1921 bridge that has only one lane, an insufficient weight limit and is in poor condition. The new bridge is also three feet higher than the old bridge, which had its deck submerged in January 1996 during a major flood.

“The new Schoharie Bridge in Gilboa is an example of New York City’s commitment and our partnership with upstate communities to create better facilities throughout the watershed,” said Commissioner Ward. “Overall, the Department of Environmental Protection will spend over $120 million to upgrade or replace 34 bridges and miles of roadway by the year 2009. We look forward to working with more communities to bring these benefits to residents throughout the watershed.”

Left to right, John Healy, Vice President of D. A. Collins Construction Co., Inc.; Commissioner Christopher. O. Ward; Jim Brown, Supervisor of the Town of Gilboa; and Alan Rosa, Executive Director of the Catskill Watershed Corporation at ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Left to right, John Healy, Vice President of D. A. Collins Construction Co., Inc.; Commissioner Christopher. O. Ward; Jim Brown, Supervisor of the Town of Gilboa; and Alan Rosa, Executive Director of the Catskill Watershed Corporation at ribbon-cutting ceremony.

So far, six bridges have been rebuilt or replaced under the Bridge Reconstruction Program, including the Schoharie Bridge. Another 28 upgrades or replacements are currently in design. Following the completion of the Program in 2009, the DEP will focus on another 14 bridges that were not included in the Program to determine what needs exist at those sites.

Construction on the new Schoharie Bridge, which opened to traffic on August 21, began in March 2002. It is a steel tied arch structure built to NYSDOT standards a short distance north of the old bridge. In addition to being wider, higher and stronger, the new bridge is a single span and has no pier, which will eliminate the scouring problem and debris build-up experienced by the old bridge. The design of the new bridge was also approved by the New York City Art Commission.

Also attending the ribbon cutting ceremony today were: Jim Brown, Supervisor of the Town of Gilboa; Alan Rosa, Executive Director of the Catskill Watershed Corporation; and John Healy, Vice President of D. A. Collins Construction Co., Inc., which was the construction manager of the job.

 

[an error occurred while processing the directive]
 [an error occurred while processing the directive]
[an error occurred while processing the directive]