New York To Close Tappan Zee Bridge At 4 p.m.

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. — The Tappan Zee Bridge will close at 4 p.m. Monday because of Hurricane Sandy, state officials said.

“Hurricane Sandy has created conditions that make it hazardous for motorists to use the Tappan Zee, and that is why we are closing the bridge,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “We are sensitive to the impact this will have on travelers, but safety is our highest priority and, under current conditions, gusts sweeping across the bridge could flip vehicles or cause serious multi-vehicle accidents.”

Officials have placed an immediate ban on all trucks, buses and motorcyles. The bridge will remain closed until further notice.

Traffic on the New York State Thruway will be directed onto the Palisades Interstate Parkway in Rockland County and The Cross-Westchester Expressway in Westchester County. Local traffic will be able to continue to exit 12 in West Nyack, exit 11 in South Nyack and exit 9 in Tarrytown. Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office announced the closure Monday afternoon after warning that high winds from Hurricane Sandy could force officials to shut down the bridge. A 35 mph speed restriction had been put in place Monday morning.

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