New Bike Lanes and Sidewalk Along Historic Union Avenue Improves Access to Saratoga Race Course and the City's Downtown District
Photos Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion, well-ahead of schedule, of a $5.7 million project that added a new sidewalk and bike lanes to Union Avenue in the City of Saratoga Springs, enhancing safety and improving bicyclist and pedestrian access to the historic Saratoga Race Course and the city’s vibrant downtown business district. The project, which also included the resurfacing of Union Avenue, was planned and constructed to fulfill the goals of the New York State Department of Transportation's "Complete Streets" initiative to consider safe, convenient access and mobility for roadway users of all ages and abilities.
“The City of Saratoga Springs is one of Upstate New York’s must-see destinations and with these improvements we have made it easier for residents and visitors alike to explore its many charms without having to drive,” Governor Hochul said. “By expanding access for bicyclists and pedestrians across New York State, we can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while also promoting healthier modes of travel and increased recreational opportunities and tourism, which benefits all of us.”
Union Avenue, which is also known as State Route 9P, connects to the Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87) at Exit 14, forming one of the key entryways to Saratoga Springs and the historic horse racing track that draws more than 1 million visitors annually. The road's link to Saratoga's horse racing history is well established. In 2022, Governor Hochul designated Union Avenue as "Marylou Whitney Way," after the late philanthropist and staple of the Saratoga community.
As part of the project, NYSDOT installed a new sidewalk compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act on the north side of Union Avenue to connect Polk Avenue and the New York Racing Association Gate 16 with East Avenue. Five-foot-wide bike lanes were painted in both directions between East Avenue and Henning Road.
An approximately three-mile stretch of Union Avenue between East Avenue and the bridge over Saratoga Lake was also resurfaced and new drainage structures added between East Avenue and Henning Road to improve storm water runoff. Construction began in the April of 2023 and was halted during the summer racing season to minimize traffic disruptions. Work was finished well-ahead of the scheduled completion date of the spring of 2024 thanks to expedited work by NYSDOT personnel and contractors.
Complete Streets projects consider the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, motorists, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Complete Street designs contribute to a cleaner and more environmentally friendly transportation system. In December, Governor Hochul signed legislation to provide additional support for municipal "Complete Streets" projects across the state.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Governor Hochul understands that 21st century transportation networks must strengthen and connect communities while also improving access for all users of the system, whether they walk, ride or drive. This Complete Streets project in Saratoga will make it easier to visit the historic Race Course and other attractions in this beautiful city without having to drive, which means fewer cars on the road, lower vehicle emissions and cleaner air.”
State Senator Jim Tedisco said, "The completion of new bike lanes and sidewalk along historic Union Avenue in beautiful Saratoga Springs will be a welcome benefit for residents and visitors to the Spa City and help improve safe access to the Saratoga Race Course and downtown. I want to thank Governor Hochul and the NYS DOT for their support for this important infrastructure initiative in the 44th Senate District.”
Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, “This Complete Streets project has been highly anticipated by our cycling and pedestrian communities and by our local environmental organizations. It is wonderful to have it finally come to fruition after years of their advocacy and planning. Sidewalks and bike lanes calm traffic, reduce roadway accidents, increase multi-modal transportation, lower carbon emissions, and enhance tourism. I am grateful to the Governor and to the Department of Transportation for their commitment to improving the safety, health and overall well-being of residents and visitors to our beloved, and now more connected, City of Saratoga Springs.”
Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Theodore T. Kusnierz Jr. said, “Saratoga County is happy to announce along with Governor Hochul the completion of new bike lanes and improved pedestrian access along historic Union Ave. This project provides safe new transportation opportunities in Saratoga Springs for residents and visitors alike. We are thankful to New York State DOT for their steadfast work in completing this project ahead of schedule.”
City of Saratoga Springs Mayor Ron Kim said, “We are thrilled to have implemented new bike lanes and sidewalks on Union Avenue. This upgrade enhances the accessibility from our wonderful downtown area to NYRA and back. I’m proud of the Complete Streets initiative and look forward to continuing to make Saratoga Springs a safer, more convenient City for everyone.”
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