This observation platform overlooking a marsh attached to Raquette Pond was built as part of the state’s $8.8 million repair to Route 30. Pictured, from left, are state Department of Transportation Engineer Tom Maroun, Tim Casey and Kevin Ture of Rifenburg Construction, DOT Commissioner Astrid Glynn and DOT regional Director Carey Babyak. (Enterprise photo — Nathan Brown)

TUPPER LAKE — The $8.8 million upgrade of state Route 30, which comes north into Tupper Lake from Hamilton County, is finished, and state and local officials gathered at The Wild Center Wednesday afternoon to mark the occasion. “It’s a great day, and we have something great to celebrate,” said Carey Babyak, regional director with the state Department of Transportation. Babyak thanked many of the people involved with the project by name, including DOT Engineer Tom Maroun, DOT project designer Steve Gagnon and contractor George Rifernburg, owner of Rifenburg Construction. “These people and groups have all worked diligently to bring this project from conception to a reality,” he said. The DOT improved and repaved the 2.8 miles of the road between Ski Tow Road and Stetson Road. Power lines were moved to enhance views of Big Tupper Lake and Raquette Pond from the existing causeway, a viewing platform and kiosk were built next to the causeway, and other viewing areas were incorpor