BUFFALO, NY – New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) crews installed a new pedestrian bridge over the Niagara Section (I-190) of the New York State Thruway just south of the Peace Bridge.
The Shoreline Trail Pedestrian Bridge will also carry pedestrian traffic over the CSX railroad, according to NYSDOT officials.
"The new pedestrian bridge and improvements to the Shoreline Trail are part of the ongoing construction work that is progressing under the $56.7 million New York Gateway Improvement Project to the U.S. Peace Bridge Plaza," said NYSDOT Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll in a statement.
Officials say the bridge – which was designed to resemble the Parker truss over the Peace Bridge – has a span of 186 feet and is 25 feet tall.
A portion of the Shoreline Trail between Niagara Street and LaSalle Park is being realigned as part of the project. The new pedestrian bridge will connect to an elevated overlook on its western end which will afford commanding views of the confluence of Lake Erie and the Niagara River, and closer views of the Peace Bridge structure. The concrete arch supports and steel deck structure for the viewing platform have been completed, according to NYSDOT officials.
The relocated Shoreline Trail will continue south alongside the Niagara River, past the West Side Rowing club, and will then cross Porter Avenue and enter LaSalle Park. The project includes new, high-efficiency LED pathway lighting from Porter Avenue to Niagara Street. It's expected to be open to the public by next summer.
