Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an exciting addition to the transformative Interstate 81 Viaduct Project’s community engagement toolbox: The launch of the I-81 Connect mobile app. The app builds on the unprecedented community outreach efforts implemented during the project’s planning and environmental phases — which are currently still effective — during construction. The I-81 Connect mobile app incorporates the convenience of 21st century technology into the largest infrastructure project in the New York State Department of Transportation’s history. The app will deliver real-time project updates and travel alerts and allow the Central New York Community to connect with the I-81 Project team directly. A daily tap of the app will enhance everyday life and reduce stress caused by congested commutes, improve traffic flow and increase overall safety.
“Community engagement does not stop once construction begins,” Governor Hochul said. “The New York State Department of Transportation is building on the robust public outreach that has accompanied every stage of this project, as we step into the future of community engagement with the new I-81 Connect mobile app. Our commitment to ensuring the residents of this community are involved in every aspect of this undertaking will remain strong until the viaduct comes down and the neighborhoods surrounding it are reconnected for good.”
The I-81 Connect mobile app is a one-stop shop resource that provides users 24/7 access to all aspects of the I-81 Viaduct Project and streamlines communication between the user and NYSDOT. When users navigate to the section titled “Connect with Us” on the app’s home screen, they will be redirected to clickable links that call the I-81 Viaduct Project toll-free hotline or draft an email to the project team. The notification feature on the app provides NYSDOT the ability to send messages about important project information directly to the user’s mobile device. This modernized approach to community engagement cuts out the middleman and allows the public to receive information directly from the source.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The I-81 Connect mobile app is a game changer and reinforces Governor Hochul’s commitment to providing a safe and reliable transportation network, accessible to all. I-81 Connect brings the community and NYSDOT together through the app, on the phone, or online, decreasing anxiety and sharing information. Today, we raised the bar on community engagement!”
As the first-ever mobile app to be paired with a NYSDOT infrastructure project, I-81 Connect is linked to the project’s website and provides full access to project renderings, contract updates, information and data associated with the first of its kind Local Hire Initiative, an inquiry form for jobseekers, materials and resources for prospective Disadvantage Business Owners and contractors, archived documents, technical details and more. Downloading the app automatically enables users to receive important project updates and traffic alerts on their mobile devices. Additionally, users can opt-in to receive email notifications.
The I-81 Connect home screen includes a list of categories to help users find what information they are looking for, quickly and efficiently.
