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According to DOT, reconstruction of the bridges will bring these sections of roadway into compliance with current state and federal standards. Those standards require widening lanes, building 12-foot safety shoulders, median barriers, the super-elevation of the roadway around curves and realignment of approach roadways for improved sight distances.
While conducting research to determine how best to refurbish the parkway, DOT considered lighting fixtures, railings and fences, bike and pedestrian path design, stonework detailing and trees and vegetation. The city’s proposal includes a uniform landscaping design that will add trees and shrubs along the Belt.
Since all the bridges except Bay Ridge Avenue and Nostrand Avenue are located within or adjacent to Gateway National Recreation Center, the Department of Environmental Protection has required construction to increase wetlands and decrease pollution into the bay. Approximately 2.3 acres of land at Floyd Bennett Field will be cleaned of litter and debris and converted to a wetland area.
If its plan goes accordingly, DOT will also manage to do the impossible: keep all three lanes of traffic open during rush hour. Lane closures are expected during off-peak and late night and early morning hours, but bus service and routes will not be disrupted. Pedestrian and bike paths will also be maintained at all times.
Nearby communities are expected to receive frequent updates on the project’s status and variable message signs will notify motorists of traffic conditions. In addition, NYPD traffic agents will also be available to monitor traffic on local streets.
The contract bid for the project is approximately $364 million, according to DOT.
