POUGHKEEPSIE — Drivers on Washington Street should expect changing traffic patterns and delays near Verrazzano Boulevard as the City  of Poughkeepsie prepares to replace the Washington Street Bridge over Fallkill Creek. The bridge, located between Garden and Mill streets, is set for major construction.

Workers placed traffic markers on Monday while utility lines were disconnected and a pole was removed ahead of construction. Asbestos abatement is scheduled to begin this week, with demolition and debris removal expected to continue through mid-May.

Preparation work includes demolishing a building at the southwest corner of Washington Street and Verrazzano Boulevard.

The main phase of construction—which includes building new foundations, installing a temporary bridge and sidewalk, and restoring the arch and creek channel walls—is expected to begin in early July and continue through mid-November 2027. The schedule depends on the completion of the Garden Street bridge project before July 1, according to the city engineer.

The temporary bridge will keep northbound traffic moving on Washington Street, while southbound traffic will be detoured to North Bridge Street. Lane shifts are also expected during construction.

The project will include the construction of a new arch bridge designed to resemble the historic structure it replaces. Channel walls along Fallkill Creek will also be rebuilt to extend their lifespan. Both the arch and channel walls require extensive repairs. The existing concrete barrier over the creek, which has been damaged in multiple accidents, will be replaced with a new crash-tested barrier.

A pocket park is planned for the southwest corner, where a house is scheduled for demolition. The project will also add accommodations for bicyclists, who often travel through the intersection.


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