Governor Hochul Announces Start of $26 Million Project to Replace Bridge Over Chaumont River in Jefferson County

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that work has begun on a $26 million project to replace the bridge carrying State Route 12E over the Chaumont River in the Village of Chaumont, Jefferson County. The project will enhance safety and improve travel and resiliency along a vital connector that helps link the communities along the Lake Ontario shoreline and is an important artery for the flow of people, commerce and tourism in the region. New sidewalks, a viewing platform and parking upgrades will also improve access to the site's iconic scenery and a popular fishing spot nearby. The bridge is a local landmark that's well-known among area residents for its sweeping views of Chaumont Bay.

"New York State is improving travel, protecting our environment and fueling economic growth and prosperity as we build back our infrastructure better than before," Governor Hochul said. "By replacing the Chaumont River Bridge, we are making it easier for area residents and visitors alike to enjoy its breathtaking views and recreational opportunities. This $26 million project in the North Country is the latest example of our efforts to build more resilient infrastructure while preserving a vital travel link along the Lake Ontario shoreline for years to come."

Using federal funds, the project will replace the existing seven-span bridge, which was built in 1961, with a modern, multi-girder structure that will only require four spans. The reduced number of spans and drilled casing concrete foundations will reduce the potential for ice jams and protect the structure from damage caused by ice and wave action. The new bridge will also feature wider shoulders and a sidewalk to better accommodate those who travel the structure for recreational use or to take in the views.

A small parking area and fishing access point adjacent to the bridge will be upgraded and a viewing platform added for those who wish to fish or simply take in the views of the river. The project will be complete in the summer of 2025.

State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "Governor Hochul understands the vital role that infrastructure plays in promoting the economic health and well-being of our communities and under her leadership New York State is making historic investments that will modernize our transportation network. The Chaumont River Bridge is a community point of pride and this project will help ensure that it is ready to meet the challenges of the 21st Century and remains a local treasure for generations to come."

The project will utilize staged construction, allowing the bridge to remain open to traffic. Motorists should expect lane closures with alternating traffic controlled by signals. Those traveling through the site may encounter minor delays during morning and evening commutes. Pedestrian accommodations will be made during construction using an on-call shuttle when necessary, or by using the existing sidewalk as work allows. Work is expected to continue through the winter months.

State Senator Patty Ritchie said, "Replacing the bridge over the Chaumont River is vital to our communities along Lake Ontario who depend on it to bring tourists and business to our region. For those of us who love its majestic vistas, this project will help draw even more visitors to our shores."

Senator Schumer said, “Infrastructure should connect, not divide our communities and for too long the aging bridge over the Chaumont River in Jefferson County has stood as an eyesore in desperate need of repair. When I negotiated the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs bill into law, it was long overdue North Country projects like this that were at the top of my mind. I am proud to deliver the funding so that Chaumont can finally have the gateway it deserves, with better fishing access, new sidewalks and a connector that will let people flow into the downtown like never before.”

Jefferson County Legislative Chair William Johnson said, "We are very thankful to the State for providing these funds to improve the infrastructure in Jefferson County."

Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual's driver license.

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