ALBANY - Governor Andrew Cuomo announced further support from elected officials in Westchester and Rockland Counties for current plans to build a new bridge to replace the Tappan Zee.

“As we continue a productive dialogue with the impacted communities in the Hudson Valley and move forward in our plans to build a safer and transit-ready bridge, support for a new bridge continues to grow,” said Governor Cuomo. “The choice is clear: Instead of paying more for the same bridge, it’s time to invest in a new bridge that will create jobs, reduce congestion and give the region a real transit option.”

“Rockland County commuters know all too well how difficult and frustrating it is to depend on the obsolete, over-crowded Tappan Zee, and given that repairs to the existing bridge would be almost the same cost as a new bridge, it is clear that the Governor’s plan for a new, transit-ready bridge with express bus lanes from day one is the smartest option,” said Rockland County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell.

“The Governor’s plan has my support. This is a critical project for our region, not only to improve travel but also to bring in thousands of high quality jobs for local workers at a time too many people are struggling to get through the recession,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano.

“I fully support the Governor’s proposal for a new Tappan Zee bridge that will include dedicated bus lanes on day one, and be ready for even more mass transit in the future,” said Yonkers City Council President Chuck Lesnick.

Also on board, top officials from Mount Vernon, New Rochelle and White plains

New Yorkers can see toll options and submit questions and concerns about the project by visiting www.NewNYBridge.com or calling the toll free number, 855-TZBRIDGE. The website also features videos of the community meetings and a database of all documents created over the last 10 years on the Tappan Zee Bridge. A Twitter account has been set up for the Tappan Zee project, and New Yorkers can receive updates by following @NewNYBridge.