Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the substantial completion of an $18.4 million pavement improvement project on the New York State Thruway (I-87) in Rockland County. The project included repairs and resurfacing of over 30 lane miles along a five-mile stretch between Exit 14A (New Jersey – Garden State Parkway) and Exit 15 (New Jersey – I-287 and Route 17 South) in the Town of Ramapo.
This heavily trafficked corridor, which accommodates approximately 116,000 vehicles daily, received significant upgrades to enhance safety and improve the driving experience. The initiative is part of the state’s broader commitment to infrastructure investment, with over $451 million allocated to Thruway improvements in 2024.
The project addressed wear and tear on the roadway by installing a two-inch asphalt overlay, repairing stressed sections, and resurfacing ramps at Exit 14B (Airmont – Montebello – Airmont Road). Additional safety measures included the installation of new guide rails, bridge joint repairs, reflective line striping, and replacement of lane delineators.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of ongoing investment in New York’s transportation infrastructure, noting that such projects ensure safety, reliability, and economic growth. She highlighted the I-287 corridor through Rockland and Orange counties as one of the Thruway’s most heavily used sections.
This project is part of a larger effort to revitalize the Thruway system. Since 2022, more than 30 miles of roadway in each direction—spanning nearly 200 total lane miles—have been repaved between the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge in Rockland County and Exit 16 (Harriman – US Route 6 – NY Route 17) in Orange County. The Garden State Parkway Connector in Rockland County was also repaved in 2022.
In addition, a $36.6 million project in Orange County is underway, covering 12 miles (48 lane miles) between Exits 16 and 17 (Newburgh – Scranton – I-84 – NY Routes 17K and 300). Northbound lanes are complete, with southbound paving scheduled for spring 2024.
Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare underscored the administration’s commitment to infrastructure, citing the $503 million in planned projects for the Hudson Valley over the next five years. These investments aim to enhance safety, improve resiliency, and extend the lifespan of critical transportation systems.
State Senator Bill Weber praised the project for addressing key infrastructure needs in the 38th Senate District and improving daily commutes for residents and travelers. Assemblymember Karl Brabenec highlighted the positive impact on his constituents, commending the Thruway Authority’s dedication to maintaining and upgrading the state’s roads.
This latest improvement on the Rockland County stretch of the Thruway represents the state’s broader strategy to modernize transportation infrastructure and prioritize safety for New Yorkers. With continued investments, New York aims to ensure reliable and efficient travel for commuters, tourists, and commercial vehicles alike.
