FHWA approves conversion of Sheridan Expressway into boulevard

The US state of New York has secured approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to convert the Sheridan Expressway in the Bronx into a pedestrian-friendly boulevard.

The announcement was made by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. The project is part of Cuomo’s ongoing effort to improve quality of life for Bronx residents.

The $75m project will include a new pedestrian bridge in Starlight Park over the Bronx River and a new two-way bikeway. It will give residents and visitors a direct link to the Bronx River waterfront and Starlight Park.

Cuomo said: “The Bronx is home to some of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in the five boroughs, and this project will finally right the wrongs of the past by reconnecting these Bronx communities that have struggled with unnecessary obstacles to revitalisation and growth.

“Converting the Sheridan Expressway into a neighbourhood-friendly boulevard will not only improve the quality of life for deserving Bronx residents, it will also promote economic growth in the region for decades to come.”

In addition to the bikeway along Edgewater Road leading to Starlight Park and the Bronx River Greenway, the boulevard will include pedestrian and cyclist friendly features, such as signalised pedestrian and bicycle crossings at Jennings Street, East 172nd Street and East 173rd Street.

A new pedestrian bridge over the Bronx River will also connect Starlight Park to the multi-use path across the river.

It will offer non-stop travel for pedestrians and cyclists along the Bronx River Greenway.

Construction is expected to start next week on West Farms Road. The transformation is scheduled to be completed by the end of next year and will be funded by federal and state funds.