The New York State Thruway Authority issued a travel alert for motorists planning to use the southbound lanes of the Thruway (I-87/I-287) in Rockland County this weekend. Due to critical bridge repairs, extended lane closures will be in effect from Friday, November 17, through Monday, November 20.
The repair work, focusing on a deteriorated bridge deck over Saddle River Road in Monsey, will result in the closure of two out of three southbound lanes between exits 14B (Airmont – Montebello – Airmont Road) and 14A (New Jersey – Garden State Parkway) starting at 9 PM on Friday. One lane will reopen by Saturday evening, but another will remain closed until Monday afternoon.
Motorists are advised to expect delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes. The Thruway Authority warns that traffic congestion is likely and advises avoiding the area during the repair period.
During the repairs, crews will remove the damaged portion of the bridge deck and pour new concrete, which requires up to 48 hours to cure and harden. While efforts will be made to reopen all lanes by Monday morning, there may be a continued closure of one lane, potentially affecting the morning commute. All lanes are expected to be operational by Monday afternoon.
To assist in managing traffic, flaggers will be present on Saddle River Road. Variable Message Signs on the Thruway and surrounding highways are already advising motorists of the closures and suggesting alternative routes.
The Thruway Authority also assures that northbound travel lanes near the construction zone will remain fully open, as repairs to the northbound bridge deck were completed last weekend.
As part of the Work Zone Safety Act of 2005, motorists are reminded to adhere to the posted work zone speed limits. Fines for speeding in a work zone are doubled, and multiple violations can lead to the suspension of a driver’s license.