ROCHESTER, N.Y. — There has been a big step forward in the redesign of Rochester's expressways on the city's west side. The Interstate 390 flyover ramp at the 390/490 interchange opened to traffic on Friday. 

It delivers I-390 south traffic coming from Greece and Gates to I-490 east. Drivers who wish to continue southbound on I-390 will use the left two lanes at the interchange and continue toward Chili Avenue and the airport. Those traveling to I-490 eastbound or westbound will keep to the right at the split and use the existing exit ramps. 

The opening of the ramp is expected to greatly reduce congestion. Existing entrance and exit ramps have also been reconfigured to cut down on vehicle weaving and increase safety.

Friday marks a major milestone for the $172.8 million I-390/I-490/Route 31 Interchange Improvement Project.

"We continue to move forward with smart infrastructure investments that support regional economic growth and strengthen the ties that bind communities together," Gov. Kathy Hochul said. "This new flyover is a major achievement for Rochester area commuters and it demonstrates how the entire I-390/I-490 interchange project will be a game-changer for Monroe County, allowing people to get where they need to go safer and with fewer delays." 

Work on the I-390/I-490/Route 31 Interchange Improvement Project began in 2016. All remaining work, which includes paving, striping, signage, lighting and landscaping is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2021.