Westbound lane of W. Main Street in downtown area will remain closed until Saturday, July 19 due to crane-related construction work

Rochester, New York – Drivers traveling through the downtown area will need to make some adjustments over the next few weeks. A section of West Main Street—from State Street to Fitzhugh Street—has been closed to westbound traffic starting today, as construction crews carry out work that requires a large on-street crane.

The temporary road closure is part of a planned improvement project involving a nearby building. The presence of the crane on the street makes it unsafe to allow traffic to pass in the westbound direction. While eastbound traffic remains unaffected, motorists heading west will need to follow detour signs and obey posted instructions.

City officials say the closure will remain in place through Saturday, July 19, 2025, although that date could change depending on weather conditions.

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“This is a necessary closure to allow for building improvements in the area,” said one official involved in the project. “We understand the inconvenience, but safety is our top priority.”

During the shutdown, flaggers will be stationed in the area to assist with traffic flow, and temporary signs have been installed to guide drivers through alternate routes. Commuters are urged to plan ahead and leave extra time for travel through the downtown corridor.

“Motorists are asked to obey all temporary signage, flaggers, and detours during this time,” officials emphasized.

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The work is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure and modernize key buildings in the city’s core. Although the closure may cause brief delays and some confusion for drivers, the city believes the long-term benefits of the project will outweigh the short-term disruption.

Pedestrian access in the area remains open, but caution is still advised, especially around active construction zones.

As always, drivers are encouraged to stay alert, drive slowly near construction, and remain patient with any reroutes. Weather permitting, West Main Street will fully reopen by the third weekend in July, just in time for the start of several planned summer events in the downtown area.