With traffic open on both spans of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Tappan Zee Constructors (TZC) is preparing to transform a former traffic lane into the structure’s new bicycle and pedestrian path.
To allow for construction of the path and its six scenic overlooks, TZC will shift four lanes of Rockland-bound traffic to the opposite side of the concrete median on the bridge’s westbound span beginning Friday night, Sept. 28, weather permitting.
Motorists traveling on the northbound/westbound New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) should plan for multiple lane closures and brief traffic stoppages so workers can reconfigure the landings and stripe lanes at both ends of the 3.1-mile span during the overnight operation. There will be no lane closures in the Westchester-bound direction.
Near the main span, Rockland-bound traffic will be slightly re-aligned towards the center of the bridge, protected by temporary concrete jersey barriers. This alignment will provide TZC crews with safe access for operational activities. After passing the main span area, traffic will re-align with the southern side of the westbound crossing. All four traffic lanes will maintain at least an 11-foot width throughout the main span area.
The bridge, including its landing areas, remains an active construction work zone. As such, the posted speed limit will remain 45 mph on both spans for the safety of motorists and construction workers. The Thruway Authority strongly encourages motorists to abide by the reduced speed limit and remain alert when crossing the bridge.
Multiple lane closures will begin at approximately 8 p.m. Friday as traffic conditions permit. At least one Rockland-bound lane will remain open except when State Police stop and temporarily hold traffic.
Work will require a temporary closure of the exit 9 (Tarrytown – Sleepy Hollow – US Route 9) northbound on-ramp from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m. Saturday. Northbound/westbound drivers will be detoured to the exit 8 on-ramp, shown below.
During the shift, there will be two traffic stops of all four northbound/westbound lanes near exit 9 in Tarrytown, each lasting up to 20 minutes. The traffic stops will allow Thruway Authority and Tappan Zee Constructors workers to stage operations, stripe lanes at both ends of the bridge and shift barriers and equipment.
All four northbound/westbound lanes are scheduled to be fully open by 10 a.m. Saturday.
Motorists are encouraged to sign up for TRANSAlert emails at http://wwwapps.thruway.ny.gov/tas/ to receive real-time updates on traffic conditions and should download the free NYS Thruway Authority mobile app for additional Thruway-specific information.
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