Tappan Zee Bridge Will Be Replaced, Not Fixed

TARRYTOWN, NY (AP) — State planners recommend spending $16 billion to build a new Tappan Zee Bridge capable of carrying a commuter railroad line.

When completed, the bridge would feature dedicated lanes for enhanced bus service that will include stations along Interstate 287 in New York City’s northern suburbs.

Transportation Commissioner Astrid Glynn says it’s hoped the bus system will be ready when the bridge opens, and that commuter rail eventually would follow. The bridge itself would cost $6.4 billion, the bus project $2.9 billion and commuter rail $6.7 billion.

The project was announced Friday, in the midst of the national economic crisis. The transportation department is working on a contract for a financial adviser to develop funding options.