I-87/I-287 Interchange
The reconfiguration of I-87/I-287 (Interchange 8) provides for direct connector roadways three lanes wide in each direction to and from the NYS Thruway (I-87) beginning at the Tappan Zee Bridge (TZB) Toll Plaza to the I-287/Cross Westchester Expressway (CWE) a distance of approximately 3 miles.
This project consisted of: a new interchange between I-87 and I-287; high speed E-Z pass at the TZB toll plaza; 15-new lane miles and the reconstruction of an additional 20-lane miles; four new bridges (spans ranging from 30-80 meters) constructed on concrete piers and abutments (the new Broadway Bridge is one of the largest precast composite concrete/steel bridges ever built); four replacement bridges; and, the rehabilitation of three existing bridges (one with major superstructure replacement).
Construction further included extensive rock blasting (15 rock cuts); excavation of over 765,000 cu. yds. of earth including 285,000 cu. yds. of rock; retaining walls; full depth asphalt concrete replacement; resurfacing; noise barriers; drainage improvements; drainage and utility relocations; variable message signs; new auxiliary lanes between Interchange 8 and 9; and, new collector distributor roadways. This project, a joint effort of the NYSTA and the NYSDOT, required extensive coordination, with special emphasis on scheduling and MPT and a complex staged construction plan.
The reconstruction of Interchange 8 in the busy Tappan Zee Corridor represents the largest construction project in Thruway history. This project has earned special Congressional recognition and numerous awards – Road & Bridges, 2004 Top 10 Roads Award; McGraw Hill/NY Construction, 2004 Highway Project of the Year; ACEC of NY, Honor Award; ASCE – Tappan Zee Award.