Tappan Zee Bridge

The Tappan Zee Bridge was a steel construction that spanned roughly 4,881 meters (3 miles) across the Hudson River, linking South Nyack to Tarrytown. The roadway sections rested on a combination of cantilevers and support piers that carried the weight of traffic over the wide section of the river.

Work started in 1952, after the postwar years showed the need for a new crossing over the Hudson. The opening in December 1955 allowed drivers to use a shorter route between the riverbanks, until closure in 2017.

The name comes from the Tappan people, part of the Lenape nation, who lived along the western shore of the river. During its active years, the structure formed part of the daily commute for thousands of people traveling between the eastern and western banks of the Hudson.

Access was limited to vehicles, as there were no pedestrian or bike paths. Tolls were charged when crossing, with collection typically happening in the eastbound direction.

The central span reached 369 meters (about 1,200 feet), a notable distance for the cantilever technique used. After decommissioning, the structure was dismantled, with portions of the material reused or recycled.

Location: South Nyack

Inception: December 15, 1955

Official opening: December 15, 1955

Length: 4,881 m

Longest Span: 369 m

Made from material: steel

GPS coordinates: 41.07000,-73.89111

Latest update: December 12, 2025 22:27