Deadline delayed again for Cross Bronx Expressway Bridge project amid community pushback
State and federal officials now have until May 7 to release a final plan for the "Five Bridges Project," a proposed $900 million initiative to repair five elevated bridges along the expressway and widen shoulders 25 feet on each side.
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A major deadline tied to the future of the Cross Bronx Expressway is being pushed back again.
State and federal officials now have until May 7 to release a final plan for the "Five Bridges Project," a proposed $900 million initiative to repair five elevated bridges along the expressway and widen shoulders 25 feet on each side.
Officials say the bridges are more than 70 years old and in need of upgrades. But the plan is facing major pushback from local organizations and elected leaders, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Critics argue the project could worsen air quality in an area already burdened by pollution and high asthma rates. They say it would also bring construction and more congestion closer to nearby homes, including more than 3,000 residents at Bronx River Houses. The NYCHA complex is located right next to the expressway.
"I've never denied that the Cross Bronx doesn't need to be rehabbed," said Norma Saunders, president of the Bronx River Houses Tenant Association. "What I am fighting for is the quality of air… we're literally about maybe 125 feet away."
Saunders says the delay gives residents more time to push for changes to the plan. Officials are expected to make a final decision next month.
The State's Department of Transportation sent News 12 the following statement: "The New York State Department of Transportation continues to work with our partners at the Federal Highway Administration to complete the environmental review process for the much needed safety project to repair or replace five aging bridges on the Cross Bronx Expressway and has set a revised target date of May 7, 2026 to advance that effort. NYSDOT remains fully committed to engaging with the community at every step of the process as we progress this needed safety project."
