ALBANY, NY (01/24/2012)(readMedia)-- New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Commissioner Joan McDonald and New York State Thruway Authority (NYSTA) Executive Director Thomas Madison today announced that NYSDOT and NYSTA have completed and released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Tappan Zee Bridge Project. This announcement marks a milestone achievement in Governor Cuomo's plans to expedite the replacement of the aging and obsolete bridge, which has been stalled for decades. The study calls for an expedited timeline that preserves the option for mass transit. Furthermore, under Governor Cuomo's accelerated timetable, construction could begin later this year. To view a copy of the DEIS, please go to http://www.tzbsite.com/tzbsite_2/index_2.html .

"New York has spent a decade talking, studying, and meeting about how to replace this vital bridge," said Commissioner McDonald. "But under Governor Cuomo's leadership we have been able to make significant progress in building a new Tappan Zee Bridge. The Governor's expedited timeline has accelerated this project, which will create jobs and generate much needed economic development opportunities in the Hudson Valley. At the same time, the study does not rule out mass transit options. Now that we understand the environmental effects of reconstructing the bridge, it is time to start laying out real construction plans."

Thomas Madison, Executive Director of the Thruway Authority, said, "The completed DEIS represents the remarkable team effort that is quickly becoming a hallmark of the new Tappan Zee Bridge Project. Leadership from Governor Cuomo and support from President Obama have enabled the Thruway Authority, NYSDOT, and the Federal Highway Administration to work in a focused, collaborative way to meet this critical deadline and maintain Project momentum. I applaud and thank FHWA New York Division Administrator Jon McDade and all the Federal and state agencies for their hard work and collaboration in this process."

Comments on the DEIS will be accepted until March 15, and public hearings will be held in Westchester and Rockland Counties in late February. Public notice of those meetings will be made as soon as final arrangements have been completed. New York met the January 19 deadline to submit the DEIS to the federal government. The document is being made available on the project website today, January 24.

The project will incorporate design features to maximize the public investment that include an additional span-width, which could be used for bus rapid transit or another transit purpose. The replacement bridge will have eight traffic lanes as opposed to the current seven, and feature two breakdown lanes that could also be used to accommodate transit or other transportation purposes. Additionally, unlike the current structure, it will include pedestrian and bicycle lanes. The current bridge has no seismic redundancy.

Congresswoman Nan Hayworth said, "Today's completion and release of the Environmental Impact Statement shows real progress toward rebuilding the Tappan Zee Bridge. Its reconstruction is vital to our economy. We need to act now to assure that we will continue to have this crucial connection between Westchester and Rockland counties. The new Tappan Zee Bridge will reduce congestion, provide for greater safety, and preserve the option for rapid transit. And the thousands of jobs that will come with reconstruction are very welcome during these tough times. I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Cuomo to resolve any remaining issues and break ground for the new Tappan Zee Bridge."

Congressman Eliot Engel said, "I have long been an advocate for rebuilding the Tappan Zee Bridge, as well as our nation's infrastructure, and I thank the President and Governor Cuomo for making this not only a priority, but a reality. Projects such as this one can be cornerstones to the economic recovery of our state. By putting men and women back to work, we are showing the nation how jobs can be created which also benefit the quality of life in our local communities. Once again, New York will lead the way."

Congresswoman Nita Lowey said, "Reconstruction of the Tappan Zee will create thousands of new jobs and make our region's transportation infrastructure safer and more efficient. I am pleased Governor Cuomo is moving forward to advance this project of national significance and put New Yorkers to work in the coming months."

State Senator Suzi Oppenheimer said, "Governor Cuomo is to be congratulated for moving this long needed project ahead and publication of this Draft Environmental Impact Statement is another significant step toward securing the essential federal funds to make it happen. Given that the bridge design is ready for and will have the capability to accept a future bus rapid transit system, we should not delay the bridge while waiting for enhanced funding and approval of the off-site transit plan."

State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, "While the mass transit component of a new Tappan Zee Bridge is important, it obviously cannot eclipse the need to provide stability to our infrastructure, a boost to the economy and much needed jobs. With so many layers of government involved that are working towards this end, we are in a unique position that we must take advantage of."

Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee said, "Governor Cuomo is right to make sure the Tappan Zee project moves forward as quickly as possible, while including the public and ensuring that all voices are heard. With the Draft Environmental Impact Statement now released, all New Yorkers will have a chance to offer their input and comments on this important project. I am pleased that mass transit remains a part of the design for the new bridge. I look forward to continuing to work together with the Governor to make sure we rebuild this critical link in our region and get this project off the ground."

Assemblyman Robert J. Castelli said, "I am thrilled that we continue to fast-track a project which has languished in discussion for fifteen years. While I recognize and agree with the need for a mass transit and heavy rail option, I also recognize the critical need for jobs throughout the region that this bridge would create, and recognize that we may start this project while keeping mass transit and heavy rail as an option for the future. I commend the Governor and Commissioner McDonald for their commitment to fast-tracking this project."

Assemblyman George Latimer said, "The Governor's vision for job creation and economic development took another step towards becoming a reality today. A new Tappan Zee Bridge has been long overdue and would create thousands of new jobs here in the Hudson Valley. The Westchester and Rockland motorists that use this bridge every day deserve a safer structure and I'm confident that Governor Cuomo and the State's Department Heads will provide that in a time and cost efficient way. I look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues throughout Rockland and Westchester as this critical project continues to progress."

Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski said, "The Tappan Zee Bridge project is on the move, and that is great news for the economy and commuters of the Hudson Valley."

Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ken Jenkins said, "After decades of stalling, Governor Cuomo's Environmental Impact Study is a significant step towards a stronger, better Tappan Zee Bridge. The Governor's expedited plan shows the tremendous potential for new jobs, safer infrastructure and maintains mass transit options for the future. In addition, the Hudson Valley communities will benefit greatly from the sustainable economic development opportunities that will be a result of the Governor's expedited plan. I am eager to join the Governor in tackling the next step in rebuilding the Tappan Zee Bridge."

Rockland County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell said, "In the face of an ever-deteriorating bridge, The Governor and his administration deserve great credit for finding a way to accelerate the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project, which will be much safer with wide shoulders and emergency access lanes, less susceptible to congestion caused by slow-climbing trucks, and with ample space for crossings by pedestrians and bicyclists. The ultimate realization of an attractive public transit choice in the critical I-287/Tappan Zee Corridor is something I care deeply about and recognize that the new bridge spans are being designed robustly so as to bear the weight of future transit improvements and maximize this public investment. I hope that planning for mass transit and accompanying highway improvements in the corridor will recommence as soon as possible."

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said, "With the DEIS now complete, the public's voice now can be heard, and we can move forward all together on this important project. The Tappan Zee has for years provided a major thoroughfare here in the Hudson Valley and it is critically important that there is no longer delay in replacing the bridge. I thank Governor Cuomo for taking the lead on this effort, and by working together we will create new jobs and launch this much-needed and long-overdue infrastructure project in our region."

Christopher St. Lawrence, Supervisor of the Town of Ramapo said, "Governor Cuomo has led a historic effort to make sure the Tappan Zee project happens now. The on time completion of the DEIS is a major step in the right direction to seeing this project get off the ground. The Tappan Zee is a critical connector for the entire Northeast region, and this project holds the potential to create more than 20,000 jobs right here in New York. We will continue to work together to make sure this bridge is built right and in a timely manner."

Ross Pepe, President, Construction Industry Council of Westchester and Hudson Valley, Inc., said "Replacing the Tappan Zee Bridge now with new safe and modern spans that reduce congestion and provide the opportunity for mass transit is vital to the economy of the Hudson Valley region. Today more than 140,000 vehicles - including 45,000 trucks will cross a bridge that has exceeded its useful life, has narrow lanes and no available space for breakdowns or mass transit. Those who are still opposing the bridge are in reality standing against the creation of tens of thousands of jobs for our community at the time when we need them most. The time for delay is over, we need to build the bridge now!"

Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of the Business Council of Westchester, said "Today's Environmental Impact Study takes us one step further towards completing Governor Cuomo's bold plan to aid in the reconstruction of the Tappan Zee Bridge which needs to provide a cohesive transportation network for the region and north-east mobility. Today's announcement provides a concrete timetable for when improvements will begin, and how the new bridge will differ from its antiquated predecessor. This project also provides thousands of job opportunities for the region and state. We commend the Governor for putting this on the top of New York's economic agenda."

Al Samuels, President and CEO of the Rockland Business Association, said, "For too long the Tappan Zee Bridge has been rapidly decaying and government has done nothing. The Governor's Environmental Impact Study demonstrates significant progress in rebuilding one of New York's most essential bridges. The Governor's expedited plan to replace the obsolete Tappan Zee Bridge, generates much needed job creation and economic development in Rockland and Westchester. It is clear that anyone who opposes the Governor's plan is directly opposing jobs in the Hudson Valley. I commend Governor Cuomo for his bold plan which will facilitate safer and faster transit to help rebuild our economy."

Ed Doyle, Sr., President of the Building and Construction Trades/Westchester & Putnam Counties, said, "After years and years have gone by with endless discussions over the future of the Tappan Zee Bridge, we are finally seeing decisive action with Governor Cuomo.

Bridge means opposing vital job growth and economic development. New York can no longer afford to let more time go by and to miss opportunities for job creation. With Governor Cuomo spearheading this project, I am confident that we will continue to see the progress that this historic undertaking deserves."

John Maraia, President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Rockland County, Inc., said, "Governor Cuomo's plan for an expedited replacement of the Tappan Zee Bridge will help us acquire what our state needs the most right now – jobs, jobs, jobs. But those who stand against the plan should also know that they are opposing good, sustainable jobs. After years of inaction, the Governor's plan will be a boom to New York's working men and women at a time when they need it the most. The sooner construction begins, the better, and I look forward to the continued advancement of this project under Governor Cuomo's leadership."

Robert Weinberg, Member of the Tappan Zee Bridge I-287 Futures Task Force, said, "With the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Governor Cuomo's Tappan Zee Bridge project, New York has once again taken a big step toward rebuilding a new and safer bridge that the tri-state region has called for after more than a decade of endless discussion and gridlock. The Governor has proposed an accelerated timetable that allows construction to finally begin this year to increase the number of lanes on the new bridge and build two lanes where mass transit options can be added."

An average of three accidents takes place every day on the Tappan Zee Bridge; even minor crashes cause severe traffic backups in both directions, which can seriously delay emergency response time. The project is expected to create more than 23,000 jobs.

The three-mile Tappan Zee Bridge carries the Thruway across the Hudson River, making it a vital link in the tri-state region. It serves as a major commuter route between Orange, Rockland and Westchester counties. Opened in 1955, it was designed to carry 100,000 vehicles on a peak day but traffic volumes have grown to approximately 138,000 vehicles daily.

Governor Cuomo noted that President Barack Obama has recognized the importance of fast tracking the review process and chose the Tappan Zee Bridge project among 14 major projects across the nation to undergo an expedited environmental review. As a result of this selection, all federal and state resource agencies have been working collaboratively to quickly resolve issues critically important to the Tappan Zee Bridge project.

NYSDOT and NYSTA are currently reviewing statements of qualifications that were submitted by prospective contractors as of a January 10 deadline. A short list of qualified bidders will be identified by the agencies on January 31. Their detailed proposals are due in June and a contractor will be selected in July. Construction could start as early as August.

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Posted Tuesday January 24, 2012 at 05:03 pm by New York State Department of Transportation
Last Updated Wednesday January 25, 2012 at 02:44 pm