Governor Hochul Announces Major Work Completed on $10 Million Project to Enhance Safety Along Grand Central Parkway in Queens

Reconfigured Exit and Entrance Ramps Improve Traffic Flow and Reduce Congestion Along Vital Traffic Artery

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that major construction has been completed on a $10 million project that reconfigured key exit and entrance ramps along the Grand Central Parkway in Queens, enhancing safety and easing congestion along this heavily traveled artery for New York City commuters.

The project connected entrance and exit ramps in the sections of the parkway between Francis Lewis Boulevard and 188th Street in the eastbound direction, and between the Clearview Expressway and 188th Street in the westbound direction, creating auxiliary lanes in each direction that give motorists additional space to enter or exit the parkway. The project will also provide easier access for the New York Police Department's Highway Patrol Unit 3, which is located nearby.

"We are continuing to invest in our highway infrastructure to alleviate road congestion and meet the demands of the 21st century," Governor Hochul said. "This project will make it easier and safer for motorists to enter and exit one of New York City's busiest highways, improving travel along the Grand Central Parkway corridor that supports the economic wellbeing of the entire Metropolitan area."

The project, which began in the spring of 2020, created a westbound auxiliary lane by connecting the entrance ramp from the southbound Clearview Expressway to the 188th Street exit ramp (Exit 19). Motorists from the Clearview can also use this auxiliary lane to access both Francis Lewis Boulevard (Exits 20A and 20B) and 188th Street without having to merge onto the Grand Central Parkway.

An eastbound auxiliary lane was created by connecting the 188th Street entrance ramp with the Francis Lewis Blvd southbound exit ramp (Exit 20B). Motorists entering from 188th Street can also use the lane to access southbound Francis Lewis Boulevard without having to enter the parkway.

Other improvements within the project limits include new LED lighting, pavement markings, guiderails and concrete barriers. While major construction has been completed, finishing work - including landscaping and drainage cleaning - will take place within the project limits this fall.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "A safe and efficient transportation network is vital to the well-being of our communities and the continued growth of our economy. These new ramps and auxiliary lanes on the Grand Central Parkway will enhance safety and travel along a vital corridor, further demonstrating New York State's commitment to rebuilding our infrastructure for the benefit of all New Yorkers."

Representative Grace Meng said, "Continuing to invest in our borough's roads and highways is essential, especially as we seek to upgrade our infrastructure and build back better. The completion of major construction for this crucial project will improve safety, decrease congestion and enhance traffic flow on this critical highway. It will make it easier for local residents to travel on the Grand Central Parkway, and in turn help our economy and enhance quality of life in Queens. I thank Governor Hochul for seeing this project through, and making its completion a reality."

State Senator John Liu said, "It is great to hear that the New York State Department of Transportation has completed the safety enhancement project along the Grand Central Parkway. This project will result in eased mobility and enhanced safety on this important roadway. The completion of this essential infrastructure project will improve travel for local residents and for those traveling to and from New York City."

Assemblymember David Weprin said, "The much needed construction on the Grand Central Parkway improves safety for all motorists who drive on the thoroughfare. From new guardrails and pavement markings to LED lighting and improved traffic flow, I applaud the NYS Department of Transportation and Governor Kathy Hochul for revitalizing transportation infrastructure in Queens."

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said, "The completion of this project is a huge victory in the effort to improve safety and traffic flow along the Grand Central Parkway. The Grand Central is a major highway for Queens motorists, and I thank Governor Hochul and state Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez for making these enhancements a priority. This is another major step forward for safer streets in our borough."

Council Member Barry S. Grodenchik said, "At a time when traffic seems to be increasing everywhere, the improved entry and exit ramps on Grand Central Parkway and Clearview Expressway are good news for residents of eastern Queens and for all motorists who traverse our highways. I look forward to easier and safer travel on these critical roadways."

Council Member James F. Gennaro said, "I would like to thank the State for making this important investment in Queens' infrastructure. These improvements to the Grand Central Parkway will not only improve traffic conditions -- it will also enhance safety conditions for commuters. The completion of this project is a welcome victory for Queens residents."

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