Construction is set to begin this spring on the Bear Mountain Bridge deck replacement, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The project will replace the bridge’s concrete deck for the first time since the 1970s and is intended to extend the lifespan of the 101-year-old structure.
The New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) Board of Commissioners awarded a $93.8 million construction contract at its meeting on February 19, 2026. The work includes several upgrades aimed at bringing bridge features up to current standards and improving accessibility for pedestrians, including those using the Appalachian Trail.
“Over a century ago, the Bear Mountain Bridge played a groundbreaking role as a connecting link for the Hudson Valley and gateway into the Hudson Highlands,” Governor Hochul said. “The bridge stands as a symbol of New York’s innovative and resilient infrastructure. Through this deck replacement project, we will strengthen and enhance this vital bridge for the continued benefit of New Yorkers for generations to come.”
Chair Joan McDonald of NYSBA’s Board of Commissioners stated, “This milestone contract represents our continued commitment to maintaining and improving this beloved Hudson Valley icon and critical regional connector. The Board looks forward to seeing this important project move forward.”
Dr. Minosca Alcantara, Executive Director of NYSBA, added: “With the vision and expertise of our engineering and design teams, this project will create a safer, more accessible, and more resilient Bear Mountain Bridge. It will enhance the experience for motorists and pedestrians today, while preserving this Hudson Valley landmark for generations to come.”
Interest in the request for proposals was high among construction firms—45 companies requested proposal documents with eight submitting bids. El Sol Contracting/ES II Enterprises from Maspeth, NY secured the construction contract with a maximum value of $93.8 million, making it one of NYSBA’s largest contracts. HDR received an additional inspection contract valued just under $3.6 million. A Project Labor Agreement was also included in partnership with local labor representatives.
Concrete decks typically last between 30–50 years; the new lightweight concrete deck is designed for heavier modern truck loads with an expected lifespan exceeding five decades.
The work will be carried out in three phases starting on the south side before moving northward. Traffic patterns are expected to remain mostly unchanged during construction which should finish by late 2028.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “The Bear Mountain Bridge is an iconic structure that has long connected both halves of the Hudson Valley, and by investing in its future, we are investing in the safety, mobility and economic strength of the entire region. This critical infrastructure project will ensure our residents, commuters and visitors can continue relying on this crossing as a main option for transportation. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Bridge Authority for their plans to modernize the Bear Mountain Bridge, while enhancing safety and accessibility for everyone who will use it.”
State Senator Pete Harckham commented: “It’s great news that the deck replacement project commencing at the Bear Mountain Bridge will include climb deterrent fencing in the design, as this will save countless lives in the years to come. We have been working to get to this moment for years. I thank Governor Hochul and the New York State Bridge Authority for taking this sensible action and hope they will incorporate this life-saving feature on the Authority’s other spans.”
Public engagement featured prominently during planning stages; NYSBA worked with consultant Thornton Tomasetti hosting public meetings since March 2025 with ongoing updates via its website.
As required by state environmental review law (SEQRA), NYSBA determined that no significant negative environmental impacts would result from these works after consulting regional environmental organizations and historic preservation officials.
Special measures are planned during construction periods to protect nesting birds such as peregrine falcons near or on site.
Safety improvements include wider sidewalks—expanded from less than five feet wide currently up to five feet each side—to improve accessibility consistent with Americans with Disabilities Act standards; upgraded barriers separating pedestrians from vehicles; improved drainage systems; installation of steel mesh-style climb deterrent fencing along sidewalks following structural testing; four new pedestrian overlooks; all intended both as cost-efficient enhancements but also supporting public safety initiatives developed over recent decades by NYSBA including emergency phones across bridges since 1984, security command centers using advanced technology tools since then as well as dedicated security staff at each crossing.
Project updates can be found online through NYSBA’s official website or social media channels (@nysbridge).
Bear Mountain Bridge opened November 27th 1924 at what was then—the world’s longest suspended span—and was acquired by state authorities in September 1940 after being privately built originally; tolls were once $0.80 per car each direction compared now ($1.65 eastbound only via E-ZPass). In recognition of military service members it received ceremonial naming (“Purple Heart Veterans Memorial” Bear Mountain Bridge) in 2018.
NYSBA operates five crossings over Hudson River plus maintenance responsibilities on Walkway Over The Hudson pedestrian bridge without direct federal or state tax support—revenues instead coming from tolls reinvested into further capital improvement projects supporting regional transportation needs.