Photo: George Pachantouris / Moment / Getty Images
The City of Syracuse is set to install a new warning system to prevent large vehicles from hitting the Park Street railroad bridge. Since 2020, there have been 42 bridge strikes, causing traffic disruptions and safety concerns. The new "clanker" system, based on a model used in Delaware, will use maroon buoy-like devices hanging at the bridge's height. If a vehicle is too tall, it will hit these "clankers," creating a loud noise to alert the driver to stop and turn around.
According to WSYR-TV, the system aims to reduce accidents by alerting drivers before they reach the bridge. Conor Muldoon, Syracuse’s chief operations officer, explained that the city needs to secure permits from the New York State Department of Transportation and the Onondaga County Water Authority before moving forward.
The bridge has seen an increase in strikes since the closure of the I-81 Northbound ramp, which redirected commercial traffic to Park Street. The city expects the system to be operational by the end of 2026, with construction starting mid-2026.
Porter Law Group highlights the legal implications of bridge strikes, noting that victims may seek compensation for damages. The new system is part of Syracuse's efforts to improve road safety and prevent future incidents.