Bridge improvements are set to impact New Paltz residents through December of this year. The Carmine Liberta Bridge is set to be replaced, with construction to begin in May.

New Paltz Times reports Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announced the project will begin after the May 1st New Paltz Regatta. The project has been in the planning stages for more than a year. More than 10,000 cars pass over the 76 year old bridge every day.

The projected seven month construction will be a problem for some residents, but a temporary replacement bridge will ease those issues. The new bridge will cost approximately $2.5 million with nearly $500,000 coming a Community Development Block Grant, Disaster Recovery program. The balance will be covered by county resources.

Stylistically speaking, the new bridge will be minimalist with an arched natural steel finish. Energy efficient LED lighting will be used, and the shoulders will be increased to four feet on each side of the bridge. County Executive Hein also stated the new bridge will include a stone overlook where residents and visitors can enjoy the scenery.

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