Phase One Of $460M Hunts Point Interstate Improvement Project Now Complete In The South Bronx

 

A newly completed roadway on the Bruckner Expressway

Skanska and its joint venture partner ECCO III Enterprises have completed the first phase of a $460 million interstate improvement project in the Hunts Point section of the South Bronx. Key project elements include the replacement of four bridges that connect Bruckner Expressway and Bruckner Boulevard over Amtrak and CSX rail lines, improved pedestrian access, and a new community park.

The full scope of work on the four bridges included construction of three new ramps, deck replacement, widened exit ramps, and the removal of existing pier bents. The team also completed a new multi-steel plate girder bridge, a new pedestrian bridge over the Amtrak/CSX railway, and a shared-use path under the Bruckner Expressway.

JMT of New York Inc. served as project designer, while VHB Engineering, COWI, SJH Engineering, Malick & Scherer, and Mueser Rutledge Consulting Engineers comprised the project engineering team.

According to a statement from Skanska, the project was delivered on time and under budget.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the first phase of the improvement project that will significantly improve the day-to-day lives of the local community and thousands of commuters that travel to, from, and through Hunts Point and the surrounding region each day,” said Michael Viggiano, executive vice president of Skanska’s East Coast civil operations. “It’s an honor to have had the opportunity to make these long-awaited improvements to an essential New York access point and provide a safer and more efficient interchange.”

Improvements to the Bruckner Expressway and surrounding roadways are the latest component of a $1.7 billion initiative led by the New York State Department of Transportation to improve infrastructure and pedestrian access across the Hunts Point Peninsula.

Earlier this month, New York governor Kathy Hochul revealed the third and final phase of the initiative, which includes reconstruction of the Bruckner Expressway interchange with Sheridan Boulevard and other improvements that will reduce congestion, enhance bicycle and pedestrian safety, and provide easier access to the Hunts Point Terminal Market, one of the largest wholesale food distribution centers in the world.