New Temporary Bridge Will Maintain Access While Historic Bridge Undergoes Full Rehabilitation
Watch the News Conference Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2NP60p3xCk
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins joined County officials, project engineers and members of the community to celebrate the opening of the temporary Glen Island movable bridge. The movable bridge, now open to vehicle traffic, will allow continued access to Glen Island Park during the full rehabilitation of the nearly century-old permanent bridge, while maintaining marine and recreational boat traffic.
The Glen Island Bridge, built in 1930, is the only connection for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists to access Glen Island Park. The bridge rehabilitation project, led by the Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T), is a major infrastructure project designed to improve safety, extend the bridge’s lifespan and preserve its historic character. The opening of the temporary bridge marks the project’s first major construction milestone.
Jenkins said: “The opening of the temporary bridge represents an important step forward in our work to protect and improve one of Westchester’s most cherished public parks. Glen Island Park is a destination for residents and visitors alike, and we knew from the start that closing off access was never an option. With this temporary bridge in place, we’re able to continue welcoming the public while investing in the long-term future of the Glen Island Bridge. I want to thank the community for their patience, and our County teams for their leadership.”
Westchester County DPW&T Commissioner Hugh J. Greechan said: “This milestone is a testament to the hard work and coordination of our County team, engineers, consultants and contractors. Constructing a temporary movable bridge of this scale while protecting marine access and pedestrian safety was no small feat. We have now created a safe and efficient detour that allows our team to complete essential repairs on the historic bridge, without cutting off access to the park. Our Department remains focused on delivering this project on time, on budget and with minimal disruption to the community.”
Westchester County’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said: “Glen Island is a crucial part of the County’s parks system and a year-round destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Maintaining access to the park throughout construction was a top priority, and we are pleased that this new temporary bridge will ensure residents and guests can continue to enjoy everything Glen Island has to offer. I want to thank our team and our partners for their leadership and collaboration.”
Westchester County’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation First Deputy Commissioner Peter Tartaglia said: “This project protects a key piece of infrastructure and safeguards access to a space that holds deep meaning for so many in our community. Glen Island has always been where people come together for recreation and to relax, celebrate and connect with nature. We are proud that this milestone allows those traditions to continue without interruption.”
Prior to launching construction, Westchester County sought input from residents, park users and the maritime community. Their feedback shaped the project scope and led to the construction of the temporary bridge. The temporary bridge will open to marine traffic on May 22, 2025. The full rehabilitation project includes a new bridge deck, sidewalks, floor beams, railings, lighting and electrical and mechanical upgrades, structural steel and masonry repairs. Work on the permanent bridge has begun, with a planned reopening to traffic in summer 2026.
For updates and project information, visit:
https://publicworks.westchestergov.com/glen-island-approach-bridge-rehabilitation
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