Otsego County I-88 improvement project underway

OTSEGO COUNTY, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — A stretch of Interstate 88 in Otsego County is the target of a new project announced by Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday, May 16.

The $21.8 million project will stretch across eight miles of highway between the towns of Maryland and Worcester. The highway has been impacted by several years of traffic and winter weather.

“Interstate 88 is a critical corridor for people visiting the Capital Region and the Southern Tier and remains one of the most picturesque rides in all of New York State,” Governor Hochul said in a statement. “We have invested heavily in restoring bridge and road infrastructure along I-88 and this project will ensure New Yorkers who rely on I-88 will continue to travel safely.”

The project intends to completely resurface the road, restoring a smooth riding surface over the affected area. The area includes almost 8.5 miles between Exit 18 in the town of Maryland and Exit 19 in the town of Worcester. In addition, minor work will take place on the bridges over South Hill Road in the town of Worcester, as well as rehabilitation work on 16 small culverts in the area.

“It’s construction season here in New York and our forces are working to restore roads and bridges, and enhance safety in all regions of the state,” Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said in a statement. As a frequent traveler on I-88, I know the importance of this corridor for tourism and commerce, and this project will serve to enhance both.  A reminder to the traveling public to be patient in our work zones – put your phone down, move over and give our crews the room they need, to do their jobs safely.”

Work is scheduled to last until early 2026. According to a statement by the Governor, Interstate 88 will remain open while the construction is underway, but motorists should be aware of new traffic patterns between Exits 18 and 19. All construction activities during this project are dependent upon weather conditions.

“Thank you to the Governor for making the repairs of I-88 in Worcester a priority,” Otsego County Chairman Edwin Frazier said in a statement. “This section gets lots of local traffic as well as a primary route for those coming to visit our beautiful county. These repairs will make it much easier and safer for those that travel on I-88.”

Motorists are reminded that fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone may result in the suspension of the offender’s license.

Motorists are also encouraged to dial 511 for the latest information on this and other construction across the state. You are also encouraged to visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

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