<P> The Tappan Zee Bridge, officially named the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge after former New York Governor Mario Cuomo, is a twin cable - stayed bridge being built to replace the original Tappan Zee Bridge over New York's Hudson River . The new twin spans will be located to the north of--and roughly parallel to--the existing Tappan Zee Bridge, crossing the Hudson River in a parallel east--west direction . </P> <P> In the new bridge's final configuration, the north span will carry the northbound and westbound automobile traffic of I - 87 and I - 287; it will also carry a shared - use path for bicycles and pedestrians . The south span will carry the southbound and eastbound automobile traffic of I - 87 and I - 287 . </P> <P> Tappan Zee Constructors began construction in 2013 . The north span officially opened to westbound traffic on August 26, 2017; it also opened to eastbound traffic on October 6, 2017 . Tappan Zee Constructors then began demolishing the old bridge . Eastbound traffic will be switched to the south span upon its completion . Both spans are expected to be operational by the end of 2018 . </P> <P> The official name of the bridge has been controversial since its announcement, with a petition and proposed legislation opposing the attachment of Mario Cuomo's name to the bridge . </P>

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