New York State To Hire Hundreds For Kensington Project In Buffalo

Regarding public works projects, the Kensington Expressway Tunnel project is one of the biggest projects that have come to upstate New York in several years. As it stands today, New York State, with help from the US Department of Transportation, is planning to spend more than $1 billion in taxpayer funds to modernize the below-grade section of New York State Route 33 (NY 33) where it runs through the former Humboldt Parkway.

The plan calls for a nearly 3/4-mile section of the highway to be capped and converted into a tunnel. The buried part of the tunnel would remain a highway, while the above-ground portion would be used as green space.

READ MORE: Buffalo Residents File Lawsuit To Stop Kensington Tunnel Project

While the community has expressed opposition to this project, NYSDOT officials are still moving forward with construction plans. In a press conference hosted by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a spokesperson from NYSDOT said they hope shovels will be in the ground in Buffalo this fall.

To help make that happen, New York State is looking to hire several people to help fill some potentially high-paying construction jobs. Part of the program requirement is for state officials to offer preference in hiring to those in proximity to the Kensington Expressway in Buffalo. That means many local residents will have first dibs at these jobs.

READ MORE: NYSDOT Releases Rendering Video of Kensington Project

DOT has been holding information sessions all over the community to meet its Hire Local goals and has training classes coming up later this summer.

The Kensington Expressway Project WorkSmart NY training program is currently pre-registering people for classes. To be eligible for the classes, you must be a City of Buffalo resident with a state-issued ID or Driver's License, a high school diploma or GED, and proof of income.

You can find out more information about the Kensington Expressway Project WorkSmart NY training program on the NYSDOT website.