Cuomo: Tappan Zee Bridge Needs to Be Replaced 'Now'

Citing safety concerns and a "pressing need,"  Governor Andrew Cuomo said Thursday the Tappan Zee Bridge will be replaced soon.

"When it gets right down to it, we have to replace the Tappan Zee Bridge," he said. "It has to be done now."

The governor was at the to announce a proposal to form a justice center to prevent, investigate and prosecute abuse of special-needs New Yorkers.

During a brief press conference after his speech, Cuomo was asked about financing for the new bridge.

He said there are no concrete plans for paying for the new bridge, adding that the state doesn't yet know how much it will cost.

Cuomo also said there had been no discussion of financing the bridge by raising tolls.

In April, the state found out it would not be eligible for a $2 billion federal loan to foot the bill for the bridge. 

Residents of both Rockland and Westchester counties have been vocal about the disruption and the possible harm building a new bridge would cause.

Cuomo acknowledged there would be disruptions, but in the long run the public will be better served with a new safer bridge.