Bridging the divide
The Tappan Zee Bridge continues to command the spotlight. Bridge dangler aside, the prospect of building a new structure is causing a stir.
The project is being fast-tracked through the federal and state permitting and environmental review processes. This could clear the path for construction of a bridge at an estimated cost of $5.2 billion. That, we”™re told, would include a design to allow for mass transit down the line.
There is a growing debate over whether to build a bridge, with a mass-transit design, now or push for a bridge that includes actual mass transit. The latter would mean a significant hike in the price tag ”“ and sources of funding are still undetermined.
For local developer Robert Weinberg, it”™s pretty simple.
“We have to get the God-damned bridge built,” the president of Robert Martin Co. in Elmsford told us last week. “As long as it provides for mass transit. ”¦ Mass transit does not have to be physically part of the bridge (now). Design a bridge that will accept mass transit when we figure out what kind of transportation the community will support.”
A bridge is going to take years to build, Weinberg said, adding that will leave ample time to assess the region”™s transportation needs. “Don”™t stop now to study trains and trolleys and buses.”
He fears opposing views may work against the project and further prolong an already lengthy process.
“We have to have one voice.”
What do you think? Build it now and then work on the mass-transit component? Or hold out for full-blown mass transit?
Email your comments to cmcbride@westfairinc.com.
Priority No. 1: Get the bridge built
As the most vocal business advocate for a new Tappan Zee Bridge with mass transit that meets the future mobility needs of the region, including east-west and north-south options, The Business Council of Westchester appreciates the work of our county, state and federal partners to make this project a national infrastructure priority. Certainly, the most important priority ”“ for the safety of our citizens and from an economic development and job creation perspective ”“ is getting the bridge built. It is essential that we all deliver this same message to the community.
“We were also encouraged to learn that the design of the bridge will accommodate mass transit in the future. So, going forward, we need to remain strong, vocal advocates for the mass-transit options that will better connect our county and region, and expand and encourage economic growth.
Marsha Gordon, President and CEO, The Business Council of WestchesterÂ
