Elected Officials, Businesses Oppose Changes to I-81 in Syracuse

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) — Several prominent elected officials and business leaders in the Syracuse area have joined forces to oppose any plans to divert the stretch of Interstate 81 that runs through the city.

A new group called Save81.org is holding a news conference Thursday morning in downtown Syracuse to voice its opposition to proposals that would reroute I-81 away from its current traffic pattern. One plan being considered by state transportation officials would turn the elevated portion of the highway into a boulevard with stop lights and cross streets.

Members of Save81.org say such a plan would increase traffic congestion and drive business away from the downtown area.

The group's members include several state lawmakers, hotel owners and tourism officials.

Supporters say removing I-81 from downtown Syracuse will revitalize the city.