Note: Published on February 1, 2016
When it comes to the future of Interstate 81, newly released poll results from Assemblywoman Pam Hunter’s recent campaign shows high levels of continued support from Central New York residents and business owners to maintain the highway’s current path through the region. These results remain consistent with surveys completed in both 2014 and 2015 by various elected officials.
As the DOT continues its economic impact study, it is important to keep in mind the functionality of I-81 for those who use it daily.
The majority of 128th District voters are inclined to favor rebuilding the viaduct in the same route it takes through downtown Syracuse. Respondents included those living in Syracuse, DeWitt, Salina and Onondaga with 64%, overall, supporting rebuilding the elevated highway the same way it currently exists.
All respondents polled took the same strong stance for the elevated viaduct with 55% of respondents living in Syracuse supporting the current path of the elevated highway.
This recent polling information reaffirms the need for the DOT to commit to serving the best interest of the people of Central New York. As this information strongly indicates, replacing the viaduct with a boulevard through downtown is not a popular solution with only 28% of respondents favoring this option.
Residents have been firm time and time again that removing the main artery connecting our city would be highly detrimental to personal lives and businesses.
As we firmly enter a new phase in Syracuse’s future, the I-81 viaduct will impact Syracuse’s future and the future of all who live and work here. This poll showcases the resounding support for maintaining Interstate 81 and the DOT must take this into consideration.