Governor Cuomo Announces Completion of $13 Million Rehabilitation of the Jewel Avenue Bridge Over the Van Wyck Expressway in Queens

Statement

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that major construction is complete on a $13 million project to rehabilitate the Jewel Avenue Bridge over the Van Wyck Expressway in Queens, as well as the exit and entrance ramps that connect Jewel Avenue to the southbound expressway. The project has enhanced safety and mobility along a key thoroughfare in Central Queens and improved access to one of the borough's major traffic arteries.

"New York State is investing in infrastructure like never before, and the completion of this project is proof positive that we are committed to investing in the safety and efficiency of our roads and bridges," Governor Cuomo said. "Motorists and pedestrians alike will benefit from the increased ease of travel and other critical improvements made by this project."

"The completion of this modernization project improves the travel experience and enhances safety in Queens," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "This significant project overhauled the Jewel Avenue Bridge, along with exit and entrance ramps, to ensure easy access and less traffic congestion in the area. This major construction is part of our overall efforts to invest in infrastructure and ensure motorist safety across the state."

The project included the repair of the bridge deck and structural steel, the repaving of the bridge's road surface and the reconstruction of its sidewalks. Structural repairs were also made to the exit and entrance ramps leading to and from Jewel Avenue to the southbound Van Wyck.

Additional improvements include new LED streetlights, traffic lights, drainage scuppers and fencing. Signage along the roadway was upgraded to meet current standards and provide better reflectivity and readability.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "Under Governor Cuomo's leadership, New York is investing in infrastructure projects that improve quality of life and help our communities grow. The Jewel Avenue Bridge project has eased travel for people and goods throughout Central Queens, while providing improved access to the Van Wyck Expressway."

Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, "Over the years, Queens has had several bridges and overpasses in need of long overdue repair, and I am delighted that the Jewel Avenue Bridge is being reopened. Bridges are vital to connecting communities and this project is an important addition to Queens County. I thank Governor Cuomo and all those responsible for making Queens a more habitable neighborhood."

New York City Council Member Rory Lancman said, "The revamped Jewel Avenue Bridge will make commutes safer and smoother for pedestrians and motorists, and that is great news for our community. I am grateful to Governor Cuomo and the Department of Transportation for making the rehabilitation of Jewel Avenue Bridge a reality."

The bridge serves as a connector between the Forest Hills neighborhood on the west side of the Grand Central Parkway and the Kew Gardens Hills neighborhood to the east of the Van Wyck Expressway. It's also part of the routes of the Q4/Q44 express buses and the Q64 local bus.

The project also included the repair of three retaining walls along the eastbound Long Island Expressway: between 58th Street and Maurice Avenue; between Junction Boulevard and 97th Place; and at the exit ramp at 138th Street. Additional signage and roadway striping were also added along Meadow Lake Drive in Queens.

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