Expect to see work crews on Rt. 9W over Storm King Mountain starting next week.

Then, come April 7, expect significant changes when it comes to driving over the mountain – long-term lane shifts begin that day.

The project to “replace critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of the traveling public, and to improve resiliency” has begun. Local leaders were told this week that the project contractor will be on site beginning March 17. Daily lane closures will be reestablished at that point before the long-term lane shifts begin April 7.

A work zone speed limit will be set at and enforced at 35 mph along the project limits.

From the original press release on the $23+ million project:

Deteriorating sections of the 88-year-old stone wall located along the eastern, or cliff side, of the roadway will be rebuilt and strengthened using a concrete barrier placed on a structurally integrated concrete slab. Where possible, salvaged stones from the existing wall will be repurposed as stone veneer, seamlessly blending the aesthetics and keeping a similar appearance. Additional portions of the existing wall will also be repaired and repointed, where necessary.

The roadway will be resurfaced using warm-mix asphalt – which utilizes less energy to produce than traditional asphalt – and high-visibility pavement markings and reflectors on barriers will be installed to enhance safety, especially during nighttime driving conditions. Additionally, about 10,000 linear feet of concrete median barrier will be replaced and equipped with new impact attenuators, substantially mitigating crash risks.

Those traveling the road, as with all work zones, are asked to slow down and pay attention to all signage and roadway instructions, including flaggers.