The $16.3 million rehabilitation of two Erie Canal lift bridges in New York began this week.
The rehabilitation of the bridges, which were constructed in 1914, will allow all legal vehicle loads to travel over the bridges.
The New York State Department of Transportation owns and maintains the bridges while the Canal Corp. is responsible for maintaining and operating the lifting components of the canal bridges. The agencies are sharing the cost of the project.
Work includes updating to the lifting mechanisms and control towers, improving the bridge railings and guide rail on the bridge approaches, and installing high-strength galvanized steel to replace the flooring systems. The southern approach to the Route 259 lift bridge will be re-aligned.
The bridges are the Main Street bridge in Fairport and the Union Street bridge in Spencerport.
“The Lift Bridge restoration project will preserve our rich history while ushering in a new era for Fairport as a great place to live, work and visit,” Fairport Village Mayor Julie Domaratz said. “All are welcome to come and enjoy the high-quality experience that makes Fairport a go-to destination on the Erie Canal.”
Access to businesses will be maintained throughout the project, and canal boat traffic will not be impacted.