State DOT Nixes Tunnel Option For Syracuse’s I-81 Makeover

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) — State transportation officials have scratched the tunnel option from its short list of choices for revamping Interstate 81 where it cuts through downtown Syracuse.

Some local government and business leaders had supported a plan that would build a tunnel to carry the interstate under the city. But Department of Transportation officials say that option's estimated $3 billion cost is too high and would take too long to build.

The two options remaining include replacing the current elevated highway with a wider version or removing a section of the viaduct and routing interstate traffic around the city on an improved I-481.

DOT officials will present the remaining two choices during a public meeting being held Thursday at the Oncenter in downtown Syracuse.

[STORY BY: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]