VIDEO: Link-Belt RT supports Syracuse highway project

A Link-Belt 120|RT rough terrain crane is playing a vital role in the US state of New York’s largest-ever infrastructure investment. The US$2.25 billion highway improvement program, the most significant project in the history of the New York State Department of Transportation, will replace Interstate 481 with Interstate 81, improving safety and connectivity to Syracuse’s Inner Harbor area. The project began in spring 2024 and is slated for completion by the end of 2026.

Link-Belt’s 120|RT rough terrain crane works on abutment construction for the I-81 Viaduct Project in Syracuse, NY, USA, part of the state’s record $2.25 billion infrastructure program. PHOTO: Link-Belt Cranes

Salt City Constructors, a joint venture of Cold Spring Construction, D.A. Collins Construction, and L&T Construction, is leading the $219 million I-81 Viaduct Project portion of the work. The effort includes reconstructing city streets, building a new interchange, widening and realigning on- and off-ramps, replacing three bridges and adding a new ramp bridge.

The 120|RT is assisting with the construction of bridge abutments, while two Link-Belt telecrawlers, a TCC-550 and a TCC-500, are handling concrete paneling and rebar placement for retaining walls.

Structural superintendent Joe Falta said the 120|RT was selected for its long reach and strong chart. Operator Pat Farrell uses the crane to hoist loads over forms and rebar for 83-foot (25 metre) abutments, often lifting gang forms and rebar panels weighing up to 14,000 pounds (6.4 tonnes) from 85 feet (25.9 metres) away. Farrell praised the crane’s Pulse 2.0 rated capacity limiter system for its ease of use and customization.

“This crane has a very good chart and is user friendly,” he said. “It is a rugged machine. When you get into one, you can expect reliable performance.”