Cuomo: Possible Closures on NYS Thruway

Update: Oct. 28

On Sunday, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo advised motorists to be prepared for potential speed restrictions, vehicle limitations, and possible closings on major crossings throughout the region as a result of high winds from Hurricane Sandy. 

Motorists using one of the MTA’s seven bridges and two tunnels, the Port Authority’s George Washington Bridge, Staten Island Crossings, and Lincoln and Holland Tunnels, or the Thruway Authority’s Tappan Zee Bridge should be aware that speed and certain vehicle restrictions are likely due to elevated wind conditions as a result of Hurricane Sandy. Closures will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on high winds, rainfall and roadway conditions. 

“As we begin to feel the effects of Hurricane Sandy it is important that New Yorkers limit their travel as much as possible,” Governor Cuomo said. “If you need to cross one of our bridges or tunnels, get the latest updates from www.511ny.org before heading out and be prepared for speed restrictions and possible closures based on storm conditions.”

Motorists are urged to drive at reduced speeds when roadways are wet, and pay close attention to posted electronic messages for important information. If there are sustained winds of 30 mph or more in dry or wet conditions, bridges will begin to see speed reductions. If sustained winds reach 50 mph or more, certain vehicles will be barred from using these crossings. These include motorcycles, tractor trailers, step vans, mini buses, trucks with open backs, cars pulling trailers, motor homes and vehicles carrying plate glass.

In the event of sustained high winds of 60 mph or more, bridges may need to be closed. Also, crossings may need to be closed even if there are sustained winds below 60 mph, if coupled with rain that could impair driving visibility. Crossings will reopen once conditions subside and it is safe to do so.

Variable message systems and highway advisory systems radio broadcasts will be activated to notify motorists, and blast email TRANSalerts will be sent to those who have signed up to receive them. Motorists are urged to check www.mta.info, www.panynj.gov, www.thruway.ny.gov and www.511ny.org for updates regarding Port Authority, MTA and Thruway Authority crossings.

To get the latest updates on the storm, follow the Governor on Twitter and subscribe to our Storm Watch list. You can also visit www.governor.ny.gov or connect with the Governor on Facebook for more information.

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Oct. 26

Everyone's preparing for Hurricane Sandy, from the MTA to O&R. It's of no surprise the the New York State Thruway Authority is also bracing itself. 

With 570 miles of highway, the NYS Thruway is checking its roads, drainage systems and getting staff ready to be mobilized.

“The New York State Thruway Authority is carefully monitoring the progress of Hurricane Sandy to ensure that we are ready to handle any potential impacts to our system," said Dan Weiller Director of Public Affairs of the New York State Thruway Authority. "We have inspected drainage systems and culverts to ensure that they are functioning properly and not blocked, prepared and tested equipment that may be needed for storm response, and mobilized staff for deployment as needed."

Real-time traffic alerts may be found on the NYS Thruway website, as well as safety tips. Customers may also sign up for traffic alerts. 

"As always, our Statewide Operations Center functions around the clock to monitor conditions throughout our 570-mile highway system," said Weiller. "Our efforts are being closely coordinated with the New York State Office of Emergency Management and New York State Canal Corporation.”