Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week the commencement of a $26.3 million project aimed at enhancing safety and resilience along a 4.9-mile section of U.S. Route 9W atop Storm King Mountain in Orange County. The project will address critical infrastructure improvements designed to withstand severe weather impacts and improve travel conditions for residents and visitors.
The project includes upgrading drainage systems, fortifying existing stone walls, replacing concrete barriers, and resurfacing the roadway. Hochul emphasized the urgency of these improvements in light of recent climate-related damage to transportation infrastructure across the state.
“New Yorkers need only look at the significant damage done to our roads and bridges by severe storms in recent years to know that climate change is already having an impact and we need to be ready,” Hochul said. “This resiliency project along U.S. Route 9W in Orange County exemplifies our Build-it-Back-Better mantra.”
Central to the enhancements will be the installation of 6,700 linear feet of perforated pipe to manage subsurface water, alongside the construction of 12,300 feet of asphalt gutters. Existing drainage structures will be repaired to better manage surface water runoff and prevent flooding.
Deteriorating sections of the 88-year-old stone wall on the cliff side of the road will be rebuilt and reinforced, using salvaged stones where possible to maintain aesthetic consistency. The roadway will also be resurfaced with warm-mix asphalt, designed to be more energy-efficient, and will feature high-visibility pavement markings and new impact attenuators on concrete barriers.
Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction during construction, which is expected to be completed by Spring 2026.
State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez stated, “Under the leadership of Governor Hochul, New York State remains committed to rebuilding our infrastructure to create a transportation network that is ready for the challenges of the 21st century.”
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer highlighted the importance of the project, noting a federal investment of $12.5 million for the upgrades. “This investment is critical for all of the Hudson Valley,” he said, emphasizing Route 9W’s significance as a vital corridor for daily commuters.
Local officials, including Representative Pat Ryan and State Senator James Skoufis, expressed strong support for the project, viewing it as a crucial step in addressing long-standing drainage issues and enhancing the roadway’s resilience against severe weather.
Town of Cornwall Supervisor Joshua Wojehowski also praised the initiative, stating, “It’s great to see the Governor and State Legislature investing in vital road infrastructure in Orange County to better serve area residents.”
As construction progresses, motorists are advised to plan for delays and follow posted signage for safe travel. For more information, travelers can visit the New York State Department of Transportation’s website or call 511 for up-to-date travel conditions.