Skanska USA has finished the first phase of a $460 million New York interstate project, completing work that included four bridge replacements.

The American arm of the Swedish-based contractor and developer announced the milestone along with joint venture partner ECCO III Enterprises at the end of December. 

Located in the South Bronx in New York City, the Hunts Point Interstate Access Improvement Program has required several stakeholders — such as Amtrak, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, CSX, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and the state DOT — to collaborate to improve the Hunts Point Peninsula roadway.

The four bridge replacements connect Bruckner Expressway and Bruckner Boulevard over Amtrak and CSX rail lines. Additionally, the JV constructed three new ramps, widened exit ramps, removed pier bents, constructed a new multi-steel plate girder bridge, rebuilt other existing roadway and constructed a pedestrian bridge over the rail lines.

Skanska announced the project was delivered on time and under budget, and should start to alleviate congestion and improve mobility in the area. 

The Hunt Point Peninsula is home to the Hunts Point Food Distribution center, which NYSDOT said is the largest food distribution facility in the country. Many industrial and commercial properties surround the food center, as well as a residential area to the north of the peninsula. 

The main goal of the project is to improve the highway and access to the area, so vehicles leaving the food distribution center need not drive on local streets.