Governor Hochul Announces Work Completed on $10Mil Project- Enhance Safety for Grand Central Parkway

October 8, 2021

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that major construction has been completed on a $10 million project that reconfigured key exit and entrance ramps along the Grand Central Parkway in Queens, enhancing safety and easing congestion along this heavily traveled artery for New York City commuters.

The project connected entrance and exit ramps in the sections of the parkway between Francis Lewis Boulevard and 188th Street in the eastbound direction, and between the Clearview Expressway and 188th Street in the westbound direction, creating auxiliary lanes in each direction that give motorists additional space to enter or exit the parkway. The project will also provide easier access for the New York Police Department's Highway Patrol Unit 3, which is located nearby.

"We are continuing to invest in our highway infrastructure to alleviate road congestion and meet the demands of the 21st century,"

Governor Hochul said.

"This project will make it easier and safer for motorists to enter and exit one of New York City's busiest highways, improving travel along the Grand Central Parkway corridor that supports the economic wellbeing of the entire Metropolitan area."

The project, which began in the spring of 2020, created a westbound auxiliary lane by connecting the entrance ramp from the southbound Clearview Expressway to the 188th Street exit ramp (Exit 19). Motorists from the Clearview can also use this auxiliary lane to access both Francis Lewis Boulevard (Exits 20A and 20B) and 188th Street without having to merge onto the Grand Central Parkway.

An eastbound auxiliary lane was created by connecting the 188th Street entrance ramp with the Francis Lewis Blvd southbound exit ramp (Exit 20B). Motorists entering from 188th Street can also use the lane to access southbound Francis Lewis Boulevard without having to enter the parkway.

Other improvements within the project limits include new LED lighting, pavement markings, guiderails and concrete barriers. While major construction has been completed, finishing work - including landscaping and drainage cleaning - will take place within the project limits this fall.

To read more about this story, you can visit Governor Hochul Announces Major Work Completed on $10 Million Project to Enhance Safety Along Grand Central Parkway in Queens.

New York Pressroom

October 7, 2021