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IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release #21-031
Friday, August 27, 2021
Contact: Scott Gastel/Alana Morales (212) 839-4850

Traffic Advisory: NYC DOT to Begin Critical Preservation Work on the BQE Beginning Overnight Friday, August 27 with Lane Shifts Taking Effect Monday, August 30

Motorists should be aware of substantial delays and are encouraged to seek alternative methods of transportation or routes

The New York City Department of Transportation announced today it will begin previously announced work this weekend along the Brooklyn Queens Expressway (BQE) in Brooklyn to extend the life of the cantilever roadway. DOT will shift lane markings on the BQE from Atlantic Avenue to the Brooklyn Bridge from three to two lanes in both directions. Motorists should be expected to experience substantial delays and are encouraged to take public transportation, while trucks and essential vehicles should explore alternative routes, and prioritize the use of the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel and the New Jersey Turnpike. Work is expected to begin Friday evening and run through the weekend in advance of the lane shift going into effect starting Monday morning, August 30.

“During this necessary work on the BQE, we strongly encourage drivers to seek alternate routes and use public transportation. This lane remarking may be inconvenient for some, but it is essential to making the road safer immediately and for decades to come,” said DOT Commissioner Hank Gutman.

As this critical work proceeds DOT will continue to address traffic effects in the local communities through monitoring, enforcement and traffic management as outlined in a recent announcement by the City. DOT also launched a robust public notification campaign including radio ads, social media notifications, variable message highway signs throughout the area, direct notifications to key stakeholders, and additional online information.

This work will immediately reduce weight on the roadway, promote safety by providing dedicated exit and entrance lanes, and provide an adequate shoulder that will minimize impacts from incidents. The City is focused on continually maintaining and preserving the existing structure as the work begins and working with all stakeholders to develop a long-term, community-based vision for the entire corridor.

Visit nyc.gov/BQE for project updates.

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