Schenectady, NY., December 23, 2025 – Schenectady County is seeking public comment on the final draft of the I-890 Exit 4C Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) Study Report. The completed report is the culmination of work conducted in cooperation with the Schenectady County Department of Engineering and Public Works, Capital Region Transportation Council, the Federal Highway Administration, and the New York State Department of Transportation. The public comment period runs through January 12, 2026.

“Community involvement and feedback played an important part in the creation of this draft report,” said Richard Patierne, Schenectady County Legislator and Chair of the Committee on Public Facilities, Transportation, & Infrastructure. “As we move to this new phase in re-envisioning this major intersection, we once again invite the public to be part of the conversation.”

The study encompassed a 0.4-mile area around SUNY Schenectady, bounded by Interstate 890, Washington Avenue, the Mohawk River, and Erie Boulevard. The goal of the study was to reevaluate the 60-year-old interchange in favor of a safer, more connected area for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike. The final draft report provides six design alternatives for the interchange, three of which best align with the study’s purpose and need and are recommended for future consideration.

“The I-890 Exit 4C corridor is a gateway and a hub for walkers, cyclists, drivers, and individuals who rely on public transportation,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “This report sets a bold course for a more connected and accessible future—bringing downtown to the college, strengthening local businesses, and fueling the ongoing revitalization of lower State Street.”

The Final Draft PEL Study Report is now available for public review and comment online at https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/engineering-public-works/exit-4c. Comments may be submitted online or mailed to Mr. Peter Knutson, Director of Engineering, Schenectady County Department of Engineering and Public Works, 100 Kellar Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12306.

The final PEL Study is anticipated to be completed in early 2026. The County intends to pursue funding opportunities for preliminary design through various state and federal grant programs. There is no schedule for construction at this time.

-30-