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TARRYTOWN, N.Y. The state will take extensive actions to mitigate Tappan Zee Bridge construction concerns for nearby residents, including using cameras, noise monitors and air-quality monitors, according to a final environmental impact study released by transportation officials Wednesday.
Building this new bridge is one of our states largest infrastructure projects and, as we move forward, we are making every effort to limit negative impacts on residents and the environment, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. The Final Environmental Impact Statement is our comprehensive plan for protecting the local environment and the well-being of nearby communities during the construction process.
The final study is the result of several public hearings and more than 3,000 public comments on the proposed bridge, which would consist of twin structures built just north of the existing bridge on the Hudson River.
Cuomo's office announced plans to create a Blue Ribbon Selection Committee with residents from Westchester and Rockland counties to weigh in on the final selection of a bridge design. Bridge design-build teams also will have opportunities to present their ideas to the public, Cuomo's office said.
In addition to concerns about construction, the final study addresses concerns with mass transit and endangered species. The new bridge, officials said, will be designed to incorporate a future mass-transit system and will have space during peak hours to operate express bus service.
The construction process will use several protection and conservation measures to limit impacts on endangered species such as the Atlantic sturgeon. Some of those mitigation measures include limiting the time of year when dredging will occur and using curtains and cofferdams to lessen any discharge into the Hudson River.
The complete final environmental impact study is available on the Tappan Zee Bridge project website. Access to construction video, noise levels and air-quality measurements will also be on the project's website.
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