The new Parker Avenue bridge was unveiled during a ceremony Thursday afternoon near the new roundabout that was included as part of the project, and the Department of Transportation’s chief of staff stressed the importance of the structure.
“The goal is to advance economic development, enhance safety and improve the quality of life for residents. That is every single project the DOT (Department of Transportation) works on these days. This project accomplishes all three goals,” Todd Westhuis said.
“A strong durable infrastructure is the lifeblood of economic development. Without that, you’re not going to have a solid economy,” he said. “That’s what we’re doing with this $13 million bridge.”
He said the DOT’s projects like the Parker Avenue bridge, which was constructed using American steel, “always include some aspect that enhances the quality of life of the community. When we’re done, we want to make sure we’re leaving it a better place than what we found it.”
Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne agreed that the bridge was a vital part of economic development.
“The infrastructure is what our entire community is based on. Our ability to get jobs and keep jobs is based on the ability to get things in and out of here. It’s really on top of the list in terms of how our community can move forward and continue to transition in an economy that is ever-changing and requires us to be really nimble. It’s the lifeblood of our community in terms of getting material out of here,” she said.
Mayor Timmy J. Currier said the bridge was part of Massena’s roots. He noted that the first schoolhouse in Massena was built in 1803.
“That was the first time that a bridge was built over the Grasse River,” Mr. Currier said. “So much of the history of this community is tied directly to the Grasse River. I can’t but sit here and think of how many millions of people have crossed this bridge. Alcoans going to Massena and the north country’s biggest employer every single day. They crossed the previous bridge and they will cross this one every single day.”
It also connected neighborhoods.
“I can’t imagine how many Armenians have crossed the previous bridge, Italians, French, Irish, Germans, Scottish, and on and on that have crossed this bridge in this particular location. This bridge stood here before, and now it’s connecting Massena’s rich tradition and heritage to our future,” Mr. Currier said. “Here in Massena, our primary focus is to embrace our past and reshape our future. The Grasse River is arguably one of the most historic pieces of our past.”
Ms. Jenne said the bridge replacement came at a time that was difficult in the community, but the new bridge represented Massena’s future.
“It really dovetails perfectly with what this community has gone through and what this community is doing as well,” she said.
“From a distance, it’s easy to say that the New York state DOT chose the replacement of a deficient bridge, but we all know that doesn’t tell the whole story,” Department of Transportation Region 7 Director Steven G. Kokkoris said.
“What we all know is that bridges are just more than conduits for moving vehicles, goods and traffic. They connect communities. Whether it’s pedestrians and bicyclists crossing the bridge for exercise, or people traveling to work in their vehicles or visiting a friend in the community, these bridges are vital to local villages and economies,” he said.
The bridge, which is also known as the state Route 37B bridge, has been closed to traffic since construction of a new bridge began in 2016. It also includes a roundabout on Center Street.
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