NY board approves Tappan Zee Bridge funding plan

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s plan to use $511 million in clean water funds to help finance the new Tappan Zee Bridge won approval from a state board Thursday, despite questions from the Environmental Protection Agency and objections from eco-groups who say it’s an improper use of the money.

The money would help pay for the removal of the old span, river dredging and several other projects relating to the $3.9 billion bridge replacement project. Much smaller amounts would go toward work like marsh restoration, stormwater treatment, the relocation of a falcon nest and efforts to protect endangered sturgeon from construction noise.