Project Overview

The New York State Department of Transportation contracted with Rifenburg Companies for the beautification of Route 9P (Union Avenue) in Saratoga Springs, New York. Part of the job area was particularly prominent, running between the Saratoga Racecourse and the Todd Pletcher Stables. We were charged with widening the avenue, including milling, repaving, and striping; installing relevant drainage, ADA compliant sidewalks, curbs, and medians; landscaping; and replacing traffic lights. The New York Racing Association (NYRA) was a critical stakeholder as the route runs between the racecourse grounds and the stables.

CHALLENGE

The high-profile location demanded extraordinary consideration of aesthetics. The scope of work expanded to add full bicycle lanes in both directions, necessitating widening the street and
shifting curb lines and medians. A schedule restriction was imposed to protect racing thoroughbreds housed at the Todd Pletcher Stables on the north side of Route 9P. Work performed April through June was permitted only after 11 a.m. each day. These extremely valuable and highly sensitive equines traversed Route 9P through two gates and returned to the stables after their morning workouts; work could progress the rest of each day without risk of disturbing the racehorses. During the Saratoga Track Meet, July 1 -September 10, the project was on hiatus, protecting the thoroughbreds and preventing interference with heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Work resumed on September 11 and concluded in October, 8 months ahead of scheduled completion. During the project, the scope of work expanded to add full bicycle lanes in both directions, necessitating widening the street and shifting the locations of curb lines and medians.

SOLUTION

Thorough planning and communication, along with coordination of efficient stakeholders, allowed this project to be completed well ahead of deadline and within the projected budget. Almost three miles of Route 9P surface were repaved and enhanced, from East Avenue to Saratoga Lake.
Materials included:
• 12,000 feet of granite curbs & sidewalks
• 61,000 square yards of milling
• 11,000 tons of asphalt
• 36 new drainage pipes

RESULT

Rifenburg is proud to have contributed to the enhanced functionality and beauty of this historic area of Saratoga Springs, New York. Successful collaboration with stakeholders, readily available materials, and convenient staging areas provided by NYRA supported our work. The addition of sidewalks and bicycle lanes enhanced the safety, accessibility, and aesthetics for residents and visitors to the historic Saratoga Racecourse.