Peace Bridge – Gateway Connections Improvement

NYSDOT sought to address concerns centered on the use of local streets by cross-border traffic (both cars and trucks) entering and exiting the existing U.S. Border Port of Entry/Peace Bridge Plaza. The goal was to create direct access from the plaza to the northbound lanes of I-190.

Erdman Anthony provided construction inspection services and EV charging station design for the project.

The multiyear project’s stages involved:

Stage 1

• Temporary relocation of the existing Ramp N while building the lowered tunnel section for the new Ramp N
• Demolition and reconstruction of the pedestrian trail and the bridge over the CSX railway tracks and I-190
• Construction of Ramp D over Ramp N
• Reconnection of Ramp C

Stages 2 and 3

• Traffic shift and reconstruction of Porter Avenue Bridge over I-190 and the CSX tracks – one half at a time
• Construction of the Porter Avenue roundabout, including new ramp connections to the Peace Bridge and I-190

Stage 4

• Reconstruction of Ramp A to the Peace Bridge
• Reconstruction of the pumping-station access road
• Modification of the Front Park entrance and paths; removal of Baird Drive from Front Park

The Porter Avenue Bridge over the CSX tracks and I-190 were reconstructed and includes a roundabout with two realigned ramps for safer travel. Part of Buffalo’s segment of the 750-mile Empire State Trail was realigned and now includes new bridges over the CSX tracks and I-190. The roadway going through Front Park was eliminated, and the park was restored to its original configuration.