Residents Voice Opinion On Arterial Viaduct Project

Utica, NY (WIBX) - The first of two public hearings on the proposed North-South Arterial Viaduct Replacement Project took place at the State Office Building on Genesee Street in Utica. One resident claimed he was never contacted by DOT officials about the acquisition of his property. Speaking at the podium, he pointed to the pages in the report he took issue with. He also voiced his objection to the construction project by describing the negative affect the project will have on the areas wildlife. Another speaker voiced her concerns about the impact on Utica College and student life.

DOT Official, Anthony Ilacqua, says most of the negative feedback they received during the hearing so far is to be expected. He said, "I'm sure that there are going to be people who are going to have concerns and negative comments about the project and that's to be expected, I mean this is a major complex project, which is going to affect a lot of residents in the city, very much--we hope for the most part will be positive impacts--but there are going to be people who have negative impacts or have concerns about the project, partially because they need clarification on what the project is going to be, or how it's going to impact them, but that's what we're hoping to accomplish here today, is to help educate people and learn from them."

Other DOT officials, Brian Hoffman and Stephen Zywiak, say the project that calls for the replacement of the deteriorating bridge between Court Street and Oriskany Boulevard, will get off the ground in 2013. The project will be completed in three phases, with the final phase projected to begin in 2016. Officials say the project will reduce the high number of accidents in the area and improve access and mobility for motorists and pedestrians.

For more information about the Utica North-South Arterial Viaduct Replacement Project or to offer comments or ask questions, contact: