PUTNAM VALLEY – The State Department of Transportation has opened the newly constructed Pudding Street bridge over the Taconic State Parkway in Putnam Valley. The opening of the bridge, along with the four interchange ramps, comes months ahead of schedule and will temporarily eliminate the need for detours, benefitting commuters, residents, school buses and emergency service providers.
The early opening of the interchange will enable motorists to better navigate the interchange during the winter months. In spring 2021, a temporary closure of the bridge and ramps will occur for approximately 60 days to tie in the approaches, replace a culvert and conduct paving operations. All work is expected to be complete by the summer of 2021.
The $28.9 million project eliminates an at-grade crossing and realigns the parkway to increase sight distance and make the crossing easier to navigate. Consistent with the Taconic State Parkway’s historic status, the project calls for a modern bridge with aesthetic features that replicate the architectural appearance of other parkway bridges.
“This is a major step forward for a project that our community has been anxiously awaiting for decades and is a great example of all that can be accomplished when community partners at every level are committed to progress,” said Senator Sue Serino (R, Hyde Park).
Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Sam Oliverio said the early opening of the project was “an unbelievable holiday preset” as he thought it would not be completed until next spring.
