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Faulty concrete delays construction of new upper Manhattan pedestrian bridge

Poor Pour

Faulty concrete delays construction of new upper Manhattan pedestrian bridge

Last fall, AN reported on a $24.4 million bicycle and pedestrian bridge that was due to be constructed at 151st Street in Manhattan. However, as locals to the area may have noticed, footing that was put in place in April this year is now being torn down.

What does this mean for those who had been longing for a connection between West Harlem with the Hudson River Greenway? Cyclists and pedestrians, fear not. After speaking with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYDOT) Public Information Officer Diane Park, AN can confirm that, due to a faulty concrete pour, the western abutment of the bridge falls short of NYDOT’s standards and is being removed.

“This will not impact the project’s schedule” said Park, adding that the contractor will also foot the bill for the new work required as well as the cost of removal. In addition to this, Park was able to disclose that the bridge is due for completion in spring of next year.

For cyclists, the bridge will be a welcome addition to the area as it is set to provide stair-free access between the greenway and the intersection of 151st Street and Riverside Drive.

Spanning 270 feet, the new bridge will feature ADA-compliant ramps on both sides and a dramatic archway overhead. This is the second and final installment from the NYDOT within the 71st Assembly District to improve access to the Hudson River waterfront, the first of which came in 2006 with the $2 million ramp and stairway at 158th street.

When announcing the project last year, NYDOT Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll said the project will cost $24.4 million, with some funds going toward new landscaping and lighting within the area.

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