[NYguy]

Originally Posted by NYC4Life

I like the proposal chosen, but rail should have been integrated in the design.

It is, but any rail expansion would be separate from building the bridge itself.

The bridge’s cable-stayed structural system features outwardly slanting main span towers and will be fully equipped to hold future transit system loads.

http://www.lohud.com/article/2013011...pan-Zee-Bridge

New environmental hearings set for Tappan Zee Bridge


Jan. 17, 2013
by Michael Risinit

Certain environmental impacts of the new Tappan Zee Bridge might be less than originally thought because the selected bridge design requires less dredging, pile driving and other activities in the Hudson River, according to the state Thruway Authority.

Because of that, the Thruway Authority has revised its application to the state Department of Environmental Conservation for permits for the building of the new bridge and the demolition of existing one. The permits focus on the project’s effects on tidal wetlands, water quality and the sturgeon population in the Hudson.

The DEC plans to hold two hearings on the revised application next month. Environmental groups have continued to express concern about the project’s effects on the river.

The Thruway Authority last month awarded a $3.1 billion contract to Tappan Zee Constructors to design and build the new bridge. Construction is expected to begin later this year.

Tappan Zee Constructors plans to dig up 951,000 cubic yards of riverbed to make room for boats and equipment. The bridge’s environmental study called for dredging 1.9 million cubic yards of sediment. Other reductions resulting from the selected design include the elimination of larger diameter piles and the shrinking of the area in which dredging will occur, according to state documents.

Officials also estimate that fewer sturgeon will be harmed because of less pile-driving noise.

The hearings will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. on Feb. 6 at the Comfort Inn and Suites, 425 East Route 59 in Nanuet and on Feb. 7 at the Westchester Marriott, 670 White Plains Road in Tarrytown.