SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The 2025 New York State Fair officially kicks off Wednesday, and organizers are preparing for more than one million visitors over the 13-day event. But with historic levels of construction underway across Central New York, many are wondering how traffic to and from the fairgrounds will be affected.

Highways and interchanges around Syracuse, including parts of I-690 and I-81, are undergoing significant upgrades tied to the massive community grid project and other infrastructure improvements. For drivers headed to the fair, the construction means detours, lane reductions, and potentially longer travel times.

Transportation officials say they’ve been working closely with fair organizers to develop a plan. Signs have been installed in advance, and traffic officers will be stationed at major intersections to help manage the flow of vehicles.

“We know construction is unavoidable right now, but our goal is to keep traffic moving safely and efficiently,” said a representative with the New York State Department of Transportation. “We’ve added signage, rerouted some lanes, and coordinated with law enforcement to minimize delays.”

Fair organizers also encourage visitors to consider alternative transportation options, including Centro buses, park-and-ride lots, and rideshare services. Buses will run expanded service throughout the fair’s run, dropping passengers at gates without the hassle of parking.

“Our hope is that people take advantage of public transit or come during off-peak hours,” said State Fair Director Sean Hennessey. “We want visitors to enjoy everything the fair offers without the stress of sitting in traffic.”

The New York State Fair, which began in 1841, is one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the country. This year’s event features hundreds of food vendors, agriculture exhibits, midway rides, and free concerts by nationally known performers.

Still, for locals and out-of-towners alike, the commute may be the biggest challenge. Construction zones are expected to slow traffic especially during evening concerts and weekends, when attendance spikes. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, check traffic apps, and allow extra travel time.

Beyond the inconvenience, officials say the current construction represents a long-term investment in Central New York’s future. The community grid project, for instance, is designed to reconnect neighborhoods divided by the I-81 viaduct and modernize Syracuse’s highway system.

“It’s a short-term headache for a long-term gain,” noted the DOT spokesperson. “Once complete, these improvements will make traveling to future fairs much smoother.”

As the fair gets underway, officials remain optimistic that despite the challenges, the celebration will bring in record-breaking crowds and continue its tradition as one of New York’s most beloved annual events.

Originally reported by Lacey Leonardi in Spectrum Local News.