Tappan Zee Bridge Biking & Walking Support Letter

Michael P. Anderson, P. E.
Project Director-Tappan Zee Bridge Environmental Review
New York State DOT
660 White Plains Road, Suite 340
Tarrytown NY 10591

Dear Mr. Anderson:

The new Tappan Zee Bridge is scheduled to last over 100 years. It is imperative that the new bridge include continuous uninterrupted bicycle and pedestrian pathways that connect conveniently to local villages on both sides of the river.

Currently proposed plans include fifteen foot wide shared bicycle/pedestrian pathways on both the north and south sides of the new bridge. There are also three proposed connection/terminus points on the Westchester side of the bridge including Broadway (Route 9) in Tarrytown (from the north pathway), Van Wart Ave. in Irvington (from the south pathway) and a connection to the planned Westchester Riverwalk via an ADA compliant ramp from the south pathway.

I realize various bridge design alternatives are under consideration and a final preferred alternative has not yet been selected. I am writing this letter to urge you to ensure that that the final chosen bridge design alternative include both the north and south bicycle/pedestrian pathways and the three connections on the Westchester side mentioned above.

Cycling is currently enjoying unprecedented growth as a form of exercise, a pleasurable recreational pastime and a viable transportation option and will continue to do so as local population density increases, our society becomes more health conscious and fuel prices continue to rise. One pathway will not be able to accommodate the amount of bicycle and pedestrian use this bridge will get. With this in mind, I want to offer my support and assistance in order to ensure two pathways and three connections on the Westchester side of the new Tappan Zee Bridge becomes a reality.

I look forward to working with you to further assist with this effort.