Expedited, New TZ Bridge Creates Mix of Optimism, Concern

Rockland's $16 billion project has been trimmed down to $5.2 billion—and may spring to life in one year's time.

For many, the construction of a new Tappan Zee Bridge has been a far-away concept, less of a real issue and more of a philosophical debate of cost-versus-necessity.

But earlier this week, the federal government , selecting it as one of 14 projects that will receive fast-track review in order to jump-start construction, create jobs and bolster transportation efficiency. Work could begin in as little as one year, officials said. And if mass transit components are not included, the cost could come down to $5.2 billion.

On a broad level, a new bridge is being hailed as a coup. "The Tappan Zee Bridge is a vital part of our state and region’s infrastructure," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said this week. "The Tappan Zee Bridge project improves a key component of our state and nation's infrastructure, and at the same time puts tens of thousands of New Yorkers back to work."

Currently, the bridge sees about 135,000 vehicles daily, and accommodated close to 45 million in 2010 alone. Deputy Transportation Secretary John Porcari said construction of a new Tappan Zee Bridge would create around 33,000 jobs.

But its local impact is far more complex—the construction of the original crossing cost South Nyack its downtown. In putting up the bridge, hundreds of homes and an entire commercial district came down.

Local input

For some, a new bridge—no matter its timeline—was never the goal.

"I still think that Nyack, South Nyack and all those who travel I-287 would be better off with a tunnel than a bridge," explained Richard Kavesh, Nyack's mayor, Tuesday afternoon, reiterating a position he has .

Kavesh said a tunnel's most important quality is pollution reduction. But the mayor also says the new bridge—or tunnel, even—should not be in Rockland.

"Economically speaking, the entire object of building [the new bridge] is to stimulate economic development to north and west of here, specifically [near Newburgh]," he said. "All Rockland is in this package is a funnel, a go-through community."

Kavesh also noted mass transit, both rail and bus, is a must on the new structure, and that Westchester and Rockland counties' busing infrastructure would need an overhaul as a result.

Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski (D-New City) is slightly more optimistic than Kavesh, but also expressed qualms.

"I think that it should be on the federal priority list as far as safety and of moving of our region forward in terms of transportation," explained Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski (D-New City).

Zebrowski said it is critical for all government officials to monitor the project as it progresses so it has minimal impact on homeowners and the community.

"I do have concerns with the project and how it will come through Rockland," he said. "I'm worried about what type of structures they would put on the land."

Adjusting to major change

Some local officials see the project as an opportunity to recoup 50-year-old losses.

In South Nyack, a team of policy makers is aiming to alongside the new bridge. The green space—dubbed Lid Park—would attract visitors and contain a minor commercial district. Supporting the concept is South Nyack mayor Patricia DuBow, Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee (D-Suffern) and others.

The initiative is in part a reaction to past devastation. South Nyack was splintered when the current span was built; restaurants were forced to close down, historic churches were wiped out and, as a result, residents' property taxes increased.

The Lid Park project is still in its early stages and must gain the approval of the New York State Thruway Authority to proceed. It does, however, have the support of neighboring municipalities.

"I would love the Lid Park," Kavesh said. "I fully support what Patricia DuBow wants to do."

"In 1955 the Thruway ripped the heart and guts out of South Nyack, and now they want to do it again," he continued. "[And] the people that will be worst-off are not those whose properties will be condemned and acquired by the Thruway—it will be those adjacent to the Thruway."

Plans lacking

For an undertaking that's hoping to grow legs in 12 months' time, a great deal remains unresolved. Hopefuls are maintaining the importance of high-speed rail on the crossing, an investment with a billion dollar price-tag that would cut back on traffic and pollution and connect Rockland to New York City with trains.

Still, officials have not determined if the project is financially doable, and have yet to .

How will you be affected by the new Tappan Zee Bridge?