Brooklyn Queens Expressway I-278

The Brooklyn Queens Expressway, designated as I-278, is a critical highway corridor in New York City, connecting the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens. It begins in the vicinity of the Brooklyn Bridge near downtown Brooklyn and extends to the Queensboro Bridge in Queens, thereby encircling the two boroughs. This corridor is primarily utilized as a key truck route, facilitating freight movement and regional connectivity within one of the most densely populated areas in the United States, with millions of residents relying on this infrastructure for daily commuting and transport.

The Brooklyn Queens Expressway serves as a vital artery for both local and regional traffic, experiencing high volumes of congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Its role in the transportation network is underscored by its connection to other major routes and its proximity to significant urban centers, which include business districts, residential neighborhoods, and tourist attractions.

Notable destinations along or accessible from the Brooklyn Queens Expressway include the historic Brooklyn Heights, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and the waterfront areas of both boroughs. The highway also provides essential access to John F. Kennedy International Airport, boosting its significance for both commuters and freight services.

Recent infrastructure upgrades have been implemented to enhance the corridor's capacity and safety, addressing chronic congestion issues. Despite these efforts, traffic patterns often remain challenged by high seasonal travel demand and ongoing construction projects. The expressway's economic significance is evident as it supports the movement of goods and people in a region that is a major hub for trade and commerce within the New York metropolitan area.