This Busy Western New York Road is Closed This Week

There is a shutdown on a major Western New York route starting this week that could impact your daily commute.

As summer rolls on, it is officially road construction season across New York. If you haven’t encountered orange cones, construction crews or a detour yet, it’s only a matter of time.

With August approaching the halfway point and families beginning to think about back-to-school season, road crews are also working to complete major projects before the busy fall travel season arrives.

Major Road Construction Projects Underway in Western New York

There have been numerous road construction projects getting underway throughout Western New York this summer, and many will continue for weeks or even months.

Drivers traveling through Cheektowaga on the New York State Thruway should expect construction-related slowdowns for the foreseeable future.

Meanwhile, in Orchard Park, work involving the new roundabout near Armor Duells Road and Murphy Road has also been a major topic for local drivers as construction continues.

But another project could have an immediate impact on commuters this week.

Route 198 Shutdown Begins This Week

According to reports, drivers who use Route 198 in Buffalo should be prepared for a shutdown beginning this week.

If you normally travel on Route 198 and use the westbound exit toward Elmwood Avenue, construction will affect your normal route. A $4.6 million construction project is getting underway, and drivers should expect a detour during the work.

"New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez today announced that construction has begun on a $4.65 million paving and surface repair project on the Scajaquada Expressway (State Route 198) in Buffalo, Erie County. More than 20 lane-miles along the length of the highway will be renewed and revitalized, including upgrades to the drainage system, to ensure a safer, smoother ride for residents and visitors on this crucial Western New York highway".

Drivers may be directed toward the Grant Street exit as crews work in the area.

If Route 198 is part of your daily commute, it would be a good idea to allow yourself extra time and plan for possible delays before heading out.

Slow Down in Western New York Work Zones

Late summer is an important time for road crews to complete construction projects before traffic increases with the return of school, college and regular fall work routines.

If you encounter a construction zone, remember to slow down and pay attention to posted detour and speed-limit signs. Work zones can change quickly, and following the signs can help keep both drivers and construction workers safe.

With several major projects happening across Western New York, drivers should expect more orange cones, lane closures and detours as summer continues.