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The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) is implementing a lane reduction on Interstate 81 southbound in Syracuse today as part of the ongoing I-81 Viaduct Project.
Starting Wednesday (January 28), I-81 southbound will be reduced to just one lane between Exits 23A-23B-22 (Hiawatha Boulevard/Destiny USA Drive/Bear Street) and Exit 20 (Franklin Street/West Street) in Syracuse. The lane reduction will be in effect from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
This traffic pattern is part of a larger construction schedule that began on August 1, 2025, and was originally planned to continue through August 19, according to information from WSYR-TV. The NYSDOT is conducting bridge work as part of the extensive I-81 Viaduct Project during these closures.
Motorists traveling through the area are advised to plan for potential delays during the construction hours. NYSDOT reminds drivers to slow down in active work zones, as speeding fines are doubled in these areas.
Construction activities are weather-dependent and subject to change based on conditions. Drivers are encouraged to check for updates before traveling through the affected area.