Tappan Zee Bridge

Spanning the Hudson River at one of its widest points, the Tappan Zee Bridge faces the harsh, corrosive effects of a moist river environment. The bridge's refurbishment in September 2008 included the utilization of more than 16.5 million pounds of galvanized steel fasteners, structural beams, dividers, diaphragms, and barriers.

Communication between the construction company, the Port Authority of New York, the fabricators, and the two galvanizing companies involved was imperative for successful completion of such a massive project. Beams in excess of 60 feet, averaging approximately 9,000 pounds each, required special effort to be galvanized properly.

The New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) had not commissioned many galvanized bridges prior to this bridge rehabilitation; however, after noting the cost savings, quick turnaround, and durability of the hot-dip galvanized steel, the contractor, NYDOT, and Port Authority are now looking for ways to incorporate the corrosion protection system into future projects. Now, the Tappan Zee, one of the oldest and largest bridges in New York City, will remain structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing for decades to come.