Tappan Zee Bridge neighbors need noise info
Traffic travels along the Tappan Zee Bridge. (March 14, 2012) Credit: Rory Glaeseman
New York State should provide more information before nearby property owners take an advisory vote on sound barriers for the new Tappan Zee Bridge. Many homeowners who would be affected have questions about the barriers, and it's the state's responsibility to provide answers.
The current May 24 deadline isn't realistic, given recent issues raised by residents on both sides of the Hudson River, and should be extended.
Among the concerns of the 161 property owners -- 101 on Westchester's end and 60 on Rockland's -- are the size, aesthetics and effectiveness of permanent barriers to curb noise. Some thought the barriers were only to quell noise during construction, which isn't the case. It's important that residents have enough information to make wise decisions -- and feel good about them.
These sound barriers could be as high as 24 feet and cost $1 million a mile. Although consensus on them may be impossible, it's also important that the pieces of the complicated bridge puzzle continue to be assembled. The project, a priority of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, is critical for the region and must be done right. That includes seemingly small details like sound barriers.
It's a smart move by the state to get the input of residents who will be most affected, but those homeowners need accurate information first.
