An 11-million dollar grant from the US Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration’s Grade Crossing Elimination program will go to eliminate at-grade railroad crossings at the New York State Fairgrounds.
Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement that upgrades to State Fair Boulevard will include over 17-thousand square feet of ADA compliant sidewalks, eliminating three at-grade crossings, and adding new traffic lights and gates.
“The State Fairgrounds are one of the largest tourist destinations in all of New York, and this federal grant – made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Program – will make the visitor experience a safer, more enjoyable one for millions coming from across the globe every year,” Governor Hochul said. “From the moment a fairgoer departs a car, bus or train, the Fairgrounds are fundamentally a pedestrian experience, and we want to keep pedestrians as safe as possible as they enjoy all the wonders that this 375-acre complex has have to offer. Coupled with our ongoing, multi-million-dollar investments to upgrade the Fairgrounds’ infrastructure and experience, these enhancements to State Fair Boulevard will help enhance safety while ensuring a great time for all.”
Design on the project is expected to begin next year and be completed in 2026.
State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The State Fairgrounds are a gem for agriculture, tourism and commerce, and the Department of Transportation is proud of its continued contributions to enhance the experience for fairgoers, staff and visitors alike. The unique traditions that can only happen at the state fairgrounds bring people back year after year. Coupled with our construction of the Orange Lot and the Highway Workers Memorial, this project exemplifies how the Department of Transportation is an integral part of the State Fair experience.”
Interim Director of the Great New York State Fair Sean Hennessey said, “Between the Great New York State Fair every summer, and the State Fairgrounds – an entertainment and event complex in Central New York – we welcome more than 2,000,000 people every year. We are always looking for ways to make the visitor experience more efficient, welcoming, and enjoyable. It’s a priority for our team to make sure the Fair and Fairgrounds are accessible, and as accommodating as possible, for all visitors. We thank the New York State Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration for this grant that will make it easier to move through Gates 1, 2, 4 and 6.”
Senator Chuck E. Schumer said, “I am proud to deliver this $11-plus million investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to New York to eliminate dangerous grade crossings at the Syracuse State Fair Grounds to increase pedestrian safety. The New York State Fair Grounds are one of the most popular destinations in all of Upstate NY- welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors every year – and it is critical that we help keep residents and travelers safe while visiting this beloved site.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Investments in crossing safety protect the lives of pedestrians, bikers, and drivers. I am proud to have worked to secure this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will help improve pedestrian safety for New Yorkers and visitors alike. I will continue to fight for federal resources to prevent traffic tragedies and keep our communities safe.”
State Senator John W. Mannion, Chairman of the Disabilities Committee, said, “I applaud Governor Hochul and the State Department of Transportation for improving accessibility at the New York State Fairgrounds. The $11M grade crossing consolidation project will make it safer for everyone to get to and from the fair, including people with disabilities. The new ADA-compliant sidewalks will make it easier for people with disabilities to move around the fairgrounds and enjoy all that this premiere New York event has to offer.”
Assemblymember William Magnarelli, Chairman of the Transportation Committee, said, “I am pleased to see this investment in the traffic infrastructure near the NYS Fairground. State Fair Boulevard is a busy corridor that only gets busier during the annual NYS Fair. The completed project will help maintain traffic flow and pedestrian safety.”
Town of Geddes Supervisor Jerry Albrigo said, “The infrastructure enhancements in Governor Hocul’s proposals will certainly help greater access to the great New York State Fair by persons with disabilities, thus increasing the attendance and popularity of this great end of summer event located in the Town of Geddes.”
