Tutor Perini wins Tappan Zee Bridge contract

Tutor Perini has won a US$ 148.8 million contract to replace 28% of the concrete decking on the 4.8 km long Tappan Zee Bridge crossing the Hudson River 21 km north of New York City, US.

Executive director of the New York State Thruway Authority, Michael Fleischer said, "This contract is part of the Authority's ongoing strategic response to maintenance issues related to this heavily-used bridge.

"In addition to improving service and ensuring the safety of motorists, the project will also improve mobility and reliability of traffic on the bridge."

The deck replacement project is the second contract to be awarded since 2006, and once completed will mean 96% of the original deck will have been replaced since the bridge opened in 1955.

Assemblywoman from the New York State Assembly, Sandy Galef said, "This is such an important project for our region as we must make sure we upgrade the Tappan Zee Bridge. I am so pleased that the contract for this redecking has been awarded to a local company.

"This is good for the company, for the city of Peekskill, and for the Westchester County. While we make needed repairs to our infrastructure, we are simultaneously stimulating our local economy."

Work is expected to start this month and the New York State Thruway Authority anticipates completion in the winter of 2012.