Governor Sherrill scaled back the Newark Bay Bridge project from a $10.7 billion eight-lane expansion to a $6.7 billion, four-lane bridge with safety-focused improvements only for approaches to the Holland Tunnel.

Officials say the existing Newark Bay Bridge is structurally deficient and functionally obsolete, making replacement essential for safety and reliability.

The plan aims to shift traffic off the aging bridge by 2031, addressing safety concerns raised by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Environmentalists and Hudson and Essex county leaders praised the scaled-down plan, arguing the original process lacked stakeholder involvement and could worsen air quality, while industry groups opposed it over labor agreements and minority/women-owned business inclusion.

The project is expected to support about 19,000 jobs, including many union construction positions, and stimulate regional economic activity while benefiting small and minority-owned businesses.

Project Labor Agreements would be required to ensure high safety and quality standards with a skilled, diverse union workforce.

Advocates say the plan aligns with climate goals by prioritizing a single necessary upgrade over capacity expansion and reducing emissions in affected communities.

Supporters describe the decision as wise and bold, highlighting potential savings, transit funding, cleaner air, and a faster completion timeline.

Local officials, including Newark and Jersey City mayors, praised the decision as community-led leadership that avoids flooding neighborhoods and worsening traffic and pollution.

Opposition to the previous expansion centered on traffic, pollution, and health impacts, with environmental and community groups advocating alternatives.

Mayors urged a single-bridge solution in a February letter, citing concerns about costs, pollution, and traffic tied to twin bridges.

Construction could begin as early as this year, pending federal and state approvals.