Governor Hochul and Congressman Pat Ryan Announce Completion of Project to Restore Historic Wurts Street Bridge in Ulster County

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that work is complete on a project that rehabilitated the historic Kingston-Port Ewen Suspension Bridge - also known as the Wurts Street Bridge - re-establishing an important connector for travelers headed to and from the City of Kingston that had been closed since the fall of 2020. With funding support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this project used more than 700 tons of U.S.-made steel to stabilize and strengthen the 103-year-old structure, enhancing public safety and fully restoring the bridge's stunning grandeur. New, wider sidewalks on the bridge will also make it easier for pedestrians to take in the scenic views of the Rondout Creek below, providing a peaceful respite from the stresses of daily life and expanding recreational opportunities for hikers and bicyclists.

"Modernizing our infrastructure to meet the demands of the 21st century does not mean we have to abandon the iconic structures that are weaved into New York State's rich history," Governor Hochul said. "The rehabilitation of the Wurts Street Bridge not only preserves a beloved and historic landmark in the City of Kingston, but also makes it stronger and more resilient, enhancing safety for everyone who travels over it."

"The restoration of the Wurts Street Bridge will provide stronger transportation, improve resiliency and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors for years to come," Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado said. "The re-opening of this historic bridge demonstrates our investment in our infrastructure that will support our local communities and help New Yorkers get where they need to go quickly and safely."

"I proudly stood here as County Executive to help break ground on the rehabilitation of the historic Wurts Street Bridge - today's grand opening is a testament to years of effort across every level of government, and proof of our commitment to restoring critical infrastructure across the region," Representative Pat Ryan said. "The Bridge is essential to our Kingston and Port Ewen communities, a vital artery connecting our families and businesses, and it will remain so for generations to come. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her support of this project, and to former Assemblymember Cahill; this would not have been possible without you both."

Originally built in 1921, the Wurts Street Bridge is a popular route for travel between the City of Kingston and the Hamlet of Port Ewen in the Town of Esopus, Ulster County. The bridge - one of the first suspension bridges built in the Hudson Valley - is unusual in that its two approaches and its towers rest at different elevations, with a vertical difference of 20 feet.

The rehabilitation project, which cost an estimated $60 million, included the installation of a new, continuous bridge deck and supporting trusses that negate the need for deck joints and will reduce long-term maintenance costs. Additional deteriorated steel elements were replaced throughout the structure, improving stability and allowing the bridge to reclaim its original 20-ton weight limit. Guide rails, sidewalks, granite curbs and suspender ropes and cables were also repaired or replaced, and new paint was added to further lessen the need for annual maintenance.

State of the art climate control systems were installed inside the enclosed chambers where the main cables are anchored to control moisture and prevent corrosion; and a decorative lighting system that can be adapted to celebrate special events and holidays was installed on the bridge's exterior. Both systems will be monitored and controlled by NYSDOT operators at the nearby Hudson Valley Transportation Management Center.

A new time capsule featuring local art pieces, New York State Department of Transportation memorabilia and various other items indicative of the region was also placed within the structure, replacing one that was unearthed during construction. Unfortunately, the original capsule had been breached and its contents eroded beyond recognition by the elements.

State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "The restoration of the historic Wurts Street Bridge is another demonstration of Governor Hochul's commitment to invest in projects that enhance public safety, reconnect communities and promote the health and well-being of all New Yorkers. This iconic bridge has brought Kingston and Port Ewen together as a community for more than 100 years and with the completion of this project we are ensuring that it safely continues to do so for many, many years to come."

State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, "As the first and oldest suspension bridge in the Hudson River Valley, the Wurts Street Bridge is a treasured historic landmark. Revitalizing it to its original glory will reopen a vital gateway between our Kingston and Port Ewan communities and restore the recreation and commerce that have connected our region for over 100 years. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul for supporting our efforts and former Assemblymember Kevin Cahill for helping secure the funding to rehabilitate this pioneering architectural landmark of our region."

Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha said, "My constituents and I are relieved that the Wurts Street Bridge is reopening today. In addition to necessary safety improvements, the expanded sidewalks will create new opportunities for pedestrians and bikers to appreciate the Rondout Creek. I believe strongly in expanding pedestrian and bicyclist access on bridges, which is why I've co-sponsored a bill that directs our state entities that oversee bridges to improve access."

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger said, "We are thrilled to see the reopening of the iconic Wurts Street Bridge, which has been painstakingly restored and improved. Now stronger and more resilient, the bridge will continue to serve as a vital connector and economic tie between the City of Kingston and Town of Esopus, supporting local businesses and easing congestion on the nearby State Route 9W. The majestic bridge is a historical landmark and destination in its own right, and with new wider sidewalks, residents and tourists can stroll across and enjoy the magnificent river views. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul and DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez for recognizing the importance of this bridge to our communities and our shared history, and I also want to acknowledge former Assemblymember Kevin Cahill for his efforts to secure the funding to restore this historical suspension bridge to its former glory."

City of Kingston Mayor Steve Noble said, "I would like to thank Governor Hochul and New York State DOT for bringing the resources together to make this major renovation project come to fruition. The specialized team of contractors worked diligently to ensure this structure was not only restored but completed in a way as to limit its impact on the neighbors and the Rondout Creek below. The historic Wurts Street Bridge is a vital connection between Esopus and Kingston for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. I am so pleased to see it fortified for the safety of all users, and look forward to the bridge re-opening, restoring this important connector."

Supervisor Danielle Freer said, "As one of the main gateways to the Town of Esopus, this bridge has historically played an indispensable role in the daily lives of our residents and the economic vitality of local businesses. We thank all involved, especially the skilled contractors and engineers whose meticulous restoration will rejuvenate this part of our town, especially our beautiful waterfront hamlets, and improve connectivity with our neighbors in Kingston."

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