End Of An Era: Last Cars Cross The Tappan Zee Bridge [VIDEO]

NYACK, NY — All traffic is now traveling on the first span of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, weeks earlier than planned. The iconic twin-span cable-stayed crossing opened to Rockland-bound traffic in late August. Westchester-bound traffic moved off the Tappan Zee Bridge overnight Friday.

The original Tappan Zee Bridge, linking Rockland and Westchester, opened in December 1955 and at the end there were more than 140,000 vehicles crossing it daily.

All four lanes of Westchester-bound traffic shifted to the first span of the new bridge just a few weeks after Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the opening of the first span for Rockland-bound drivers.

Traffic on the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) will consist of four lanes in each direction on the first span, separated by a concrete barrier. This will allow design-builder Tappan Zee Constructors to demolish the landings of the old bridge, which occupy the same footprint of the second span, and connect the second span to land. When completed, drivers will reap the full benefits of the 3.1-mile twin-span, which will include:

• Eight general traffic lanes;
• Four breakdown and emergency lanes;
• Space for future bus rapid transit and commuter rail;
• A bicycle and walking path with six unique viewing areas; and
• Cashless tolling

PHOTO/ New York Thruway Authority

SEE ALSO:

• 1st Transition To The Cuomo Bridge From The TZB Is Next Week
• Sneak Preview: Teens Jumped The Gun On The New TZ Bridge (But You Won't Have To)
• NY Holding Info Sessions On Dedicated Bus Lane For The New Bridge
• WATCH 4 Years In 2 Minutes: New Bridge Time-Lapse Video