Governor Cuomo Announces Beginning of Formal Construction of the New NY Bridge to Replace Tappan Zee
Press release.
By Long Island News & PRs Published: October 16 2013
Albany, NY - October 16, 2013 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the beginning of formal construction of the New NY Bridge to replace the Tappan Zee with installation of the first permanent piles that will comprise the foundation of the new bridge. The bridge is scheduled to be completed in just under five years from the start of formal construction making it one of the nation’s largest construction projects to be completed in such a short time.
“This week, we are putting shovels in the ground and starting formal construction on a new bridge to replace the Tappan Zee, the largest infrastructure project New York State has undertaken in decades,” Governor Cuomo said. “After more than a decade of delay, New York State has moved this project forward at a dramatic pace while working with the community, involving the public and protecting the local environment. Once completed, drivers in Rockland, Westchester and surrounding areas will finally have a safer, less congested bridge that will include a walkway for pedestrians and bikers and accommodates future mass transit.”
“The New NY Bridge is the largest transportation infrastructure project in North America and one of the largest construction contracts in New York State history. The Thruway Authority is grateful for Governor Cuomo's strong leadership and support, as well as the dedication of all of the federal and state agencies involved,” said Thruway Authority Chairman Howard P. Milstein. “We are on track to complete this vital link in our regional transportation infrastructure on time and on budget.”
When completed, the New NY Bridge will mean less congestion for motorists, with eight traffic lanes, four breakdown/emergency lanes, and state-of-the-art traffic monitoring systems, as well as a dedicated commuter bus lane from the day it opens. Designed and constructed to be mass-transit-ready, the new crossing will be able to accommodate bus rapid transit, light rail or commuter rail. The twin-span bridge will also include a bike and pedestrian path.
Read more at http://www.longisland.com/news/10-16-13/governor-cuomo-announces-beginning-of-formal-construction-of-the-new-ny-bridge-to-replace-tappan-zee.html
