Brooklyn Bridge to undergo major construction

The construction begins Monday at 9 p.m. to start creating a two-way protected bike path.

News 12 Staff

Jun 21, 2021, 12:33 PM

Updated 1,261 days ago

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Delays are expected on the Brooklyn Bridge as a major construction project begins aiming to better serve bicyclists and pedestrians.
Once the project is complete, it is expected to alleviate headaches for walkers and bicyclists. Until then, commuters will have to give themselves extra time to get to their destination.
The construction begins Monday at 9 p.m. to start creating a two-way protected bike path. So, give yourself plenty of time if you plan to cross the bridge.
The right turn from Tillary Street heading west will not be allowed and that could continue after work is done. The mayor's office explains that the project will remove the innermost Manhattan-bound lane to create the pathway.
Mayor Bill de Blasio promised this during his State of the City address in January. During the pandemic, bike riding surged with an estimated increase of 27%.
If you need to get to Manhattan, there are alternatives. Officials suggest taking the Manhattan Bridge or Hugh L. Carey tunnel. This will not just benefit bicyclists, though. The city Department of Transportation says it will expand dedicated space on the promenade for, on some days, what adds up to 10,000 people.
The city says this is the first major transformation on the bridge since 1950. Construction can possibly wrap by the early fall.