The bridge holding the Bronx River Parkway over the Metro-North Railroad in the north most neighborhoods in The Bronx will be getting a steel girder replacement. The previous bridge is 72 years old.

The new, multi-girder steel bridge is intended to “improve safety and enhance travel along this vital artery for commuters.” A new concrete arch bridge holding up the parkway over the Bronx River will also get repairs, and the northbound exit ramp in the area will be extended 70 feet, according to the governor’s press release.

“Investments in infrastructure are one of the surest ways to super charge New York's economy and at the same time create a more resilient transportation network that keeps people and goods on the move," Governor Hochul said.

“The Bronx River Parkway is one of New York City's most critical travel corridors, and with this bridge replacement now complete, we're not only ensuring the continued safe operation of the Metro-North line, but also fostering growth and prosperity for the entire region,” Gov. Hochul added.

New York Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez praised the state’s new governor, commenting that "This important project demonstrates Governor Hochul's commitment to building back our infrastructure to better serve New Yorkers and meet the challenges of the 21st century.”

“This new bridge and all the improvements being made along this vital corridor, will enhance safety and improve traffic flow throughout this busy section of the Bronx,” Commissioner Dominguez added.

As the press release notes, some 450 trains pass beneath the Bronx River Parkway Bridge on a daily basis.

The new bridge will include a wider concrete deck, 12-foot-wide travel lanes and new shoulders on both sides. “Other improvements include new bridge abutments, retaining walls, LED lighting and drainage.”

The project is expected to conclude in the autumn of 2024, giving the previous bridge a lifespan of 75 years.

The nearby concrete arch bridge will also get new concrete safety barriers on both sides, wider lanes and new shoulders. The underside of the bridge will also receive structural repairs.

Much of the area will be getting similar upgrades to improve safety; new LED lighting, wider lanes, new shoulders, resurfaced pavement, etc.

The bright side of commuters is that lane closures throughout the construction process will be “limited to weekends and overnight hours.”