A Bird’s-Eye View: Rochester’s $60 Million I-490 Bridge Project
If you’ve driven along I-490 in Rochester, NY, you’ve probably seen the cones, cranes, and construction crews hard at work. Thousands of cars travel this stretch of highway every day, but most drivers only get a quick glimpse of the project while navigating traffic.
That’s where this drone video of Rochester’s I-490 construction comes in—giving us a clear, stress-free look at the progress being made on two major bridges.
🏗️ What’s Happening?
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) is investing $60 million to replace the I-490 bridges over Kreag Road and the Erie Canal. These bridges have carried heavy traffic for decades, and now they’re getting a much-needed replacement to ensure smoother, safer travel for the future.
It’s one of the largest Rochester NY bridge construction projects underway right now, and from above, you can see just how impressive the work really is.
🕰️ When Did It Start?
Construction officially began in the summer of 2025. Since then, the project has become a daily sight for commuters, with lane shifts, equipment staging areas, and constant progress visible from the highway.
If you’ve been searching for an I-490 construction update in Rochester, this drone footage shows you exactly what’s happening on both the Kreag Road bridge and the Erie Canal bridge.
🚦 The Zipper Merge Experiment
This project is also making local history with the first-ever zipper merge system in Rochester.
Drivers are asked to use both lanes until the merge point, then alternate like a zipper to keep traffic moving efficiently. Sounds simple enough, right? In practice… let’s just say it’s been a learning curve for many.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s happening behind the merge signs, this drone video of the I-490 bridge replacement gives you the bird’s-eye view you’ve been missing.
✈️ Why the Drone View Helps
Watching from your car window is tough—you’re trying to stay safe while navigating traffic. From the air, though, the full picture comes into focus.
The Rochester NY drone footage highlights the cranes at work, the crews on-site, and the span of both bridges over the iconic Erie Canal. It’s a perspective you just can’t get while driving by.
👀 Why It Matters
Infrastructure might not always feel exciting, but it keeps our community moving. Projects like the I-490 bridge replacement in Rochester NY are critical for safety and long-term travel. While traffic delays are temporary, the end result will benefit thousands of daily commuters.
So, the next time you’re inching through that zipper merge on I-490, just remember—real progress is happening right under your wheels.
👉 Want to see for yourself? Check out the full drone construction update of the I-490 bridge project in Rochester NY here: