A resolution regarding this planned detour was discussed by both the public works committee and overall council work session during their most recent meeting. The bridge project was originally estimated to end in 2026, but the project has been extended an additional year.

The 3,790-foot-long main bridge crossing Chautauqua Lake and two, 500-foot-long bridge structures that split off the eastern end of the main bridge, and carry the eastbound and westbound lanes of traffic, are getting new concrete bridge decks, bridge barriers, bearings and steel repairs. The three structures total 24 spans. A fourth bridge structure that carries westbound I-86 ramps to Route 430 will also receive new bridge joints and will be resurfaced.

“The Department of Transportation wants to make sure they give us a heads up when they’re going to be detouring traffic in our direction,” said Councilman Daniel Gonzalez, D-At Large and Public Works Committee chairman. “If we have an event or something like that they will work around it so they won’t detour traffic through us.”

The resolution notes that the DOT has advised that phase two of construction is anticipated for late fall 2026 to late fall 2027, and certain short-term nighttime bridge closures will be necessary during that construction time. During those closures, the DOT has proposed the detour on I-86 eastbound to use Route 394, Fifth Street, Fluvanna Avenue and Strunk Road. The detour is expected to use about 0.4 miles of Fifth Street.

A construction vehicle is pictured near the shores of Chautauqua Lake in Bemus Point. P-J photo by John Whittaker

The resolution allows the city to authorize this overnight detour route, and also notes that the DOT will be responsible for providing, installing, maintaining and removing all necessary detour signs and traffic control devices. The DOT will also be responsible for any necessary repairs or restorations to the affected portion of Fifth Street. The city will remain responsible for snow and ice control along the entire detour route that falls within the city of Jamestown during that period of time.

“They are requesting that they have that space to utilize that,” Gonzalez said.