A $97.4 million project to replace the deck of the Bear Mountain Bridge over the Hudson River that carries U.S. Routes 6 and 202 is due to begin in the spring in accordance with contracts that were awarded by the New York State Bridge Authority Board of Commissioners.
A construction contract valued at a not-to-exceed cost of $93.8 million was awarded to El Sol Contracting/ES II Enterprises, which is based in Maspeth in Queens. A separate construction inspection contract, valued at just under $3.6 million was awarded to engineering firm HDR, based in White Plains.
The work will involve replacing the bridge deck, widening sidewalks, upgrading the barriers that separate pedestrian walkways and vehicles, enhancing safety fences, upgrading drainage systems and installing four overlooks from where people can view the river and local scenery.
According to New York state, the Bear Mountain Bridge last underwent a deck replacement in the 1970s. Concrete bridge decks typically last between 30 and 50 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. The new deck will utilize lightweight concrete designed to accommodate heavier modern truck loads and is expected to serve the bridge for more than 50 years.
Construction will occur in three major phases, beginning with preliminary work on the south side of the bridge before starting major work for Phase 1 on the north side of the span. The Bridge Authority says that work will be sequenced to maintain typical traffic patterns and minimize disruption to motorists. Special measures are to be taken that would minimize impacts on bird species that nest on or near the bridge, such as peregrine falcons. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
Joan McDonald, who chairs the Bridge Authority Board of Commissioners and also is Deputy County Executive for Westchester County said, “This milestone contract represents our continued commitment to maintaining and improving this beloved Hudson Valley icon and critical regional connector. The board looks forward to seeing this important project move forward.”
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins noted, “The Bear Mountain Bridge is an iconic structure that has long connected both halves of the Hudson Valley, and by investing in its future, we are investing in the safety, mobility and economic strength of the entire region. This critical infrastructure project will ensure our residents, commuters and visitors can continue relying on this crossing as a main option for transportation.”
According to Gov. Kathy Hochul, “Over a century ago, the Bear Mountain Bridge played a groundbreaking role as a connecting link for the Hudson Valley and gateway into the Hudson Highlands. The bridge stands as a symbol of New York’s innovative and resilient infrastructure. Through this deck replacement project, we will strengthen and enhance this vital bridge for the continued benefit of New Yorkers for generations to come.”
The New York State Bridge Authority operates the Bear Mountain, Newburgh-Beacon, Mid-Hudson, Kingston-Rhinecliff and Rip Van Winkle bridges and performs maintenance work on the Walkway Over the Hudson pedestrian bridge.
