New York State Thruway Authority

05/07/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/07/2021 13:11

FREE WEEKEND SHUTTLE BUS FOR GOVERNOR MARIO M. CUOMO BRIDGE PATH BEGINS MAY 8

Contact: Heather Pillsworth, (845) 431-7911
Release Date: May 07, 2021

Free Weekend Shuttle Bus For Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Path Begins May 8

New York Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez today announced that Hudson Link's free shuttle bus servicing the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge shared use path will restart service each weekend beginning Saturday, May 8 through Sunday, October 31. This shuttle service will once again serve one of the longest shared use paths in the country, providing unparalleled service to pedestrians and bicyclists.

'The State Department of Transportation is proud to continue supporting the scenic amenities that the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge has to offer while promoting a healthier New York,' Commissioner Dominguez said. 'With over a quarter of a million visitors enjoying the shared used path last year alone, this no cost shuttle service allows walkers and bicyclists to easily access this unique crossing over the majestic Hudson River.'

The shuttle buses will run every 20 minutes between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. on weekends and allow easy access to the landings on both sides of the recreational path. The shuttle serves four stops and travels both eastbound and westbound to support usage of the shared use path.

The four stops include:

  • Path's Rockland County landing in South Nyack
  • Palisades Center - Lot J
  • Path's Westchester County landing in Tarrytown
  • Tarrytown train station

If the primary landing parking lots on each side are full, visitors can find additional parking in Westchester at the Tarrytown Train Station and in Rockland at Palisades Center - Lot J. Visitors can also take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Tarrytown. The path's parking lots feature a four-hour time limit and fill up quickly on weekends. Visitors are strongly encouraged to check the bridge's Twitter account (@GMMCB) for updates on parking lot status and weather conditions. More information about the path is also available on the bridge's website, mariomcuomobridge.ny.gov.

Every Hudson Link bus has a bike rack that can accommodate three adult-sized bicycles and follows ADA accessibility guidelines. Hudson Link prioritizes health and safety, requiring face coverings and social distancing aboard the shuttle bus and while utilizing the path. Face coverings must cover the nose and mouth during the duration of the bus trip. After a fun-filled day on the path, the shuttle bus will take visitors back to their cars or the train station.

At 3.6 miles, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge features one of the longest shared use paths in the United States. Located on the northern side of the bridge's westbound span, cyclists and pedestrians encounter six scenic overlooks, interpretive signage, and works of public art as they cross the Hudson River. Food, restrooms, and other amenities are available at landings in Westchester and Rockland counties.

To ensure the safety of all using the path, visitors should keep six feet apart from others. When social distancing cannot be maintained, visitors are asked to wear a face covering on the path and in the restrooms. Physical signs are posted to remind visitors of their shared responsibilities during the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.

New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Matthew J. Driscoll said, 'The return of the free weekend bus shuttle is great news for path visitors. With more people getting vaccinated every day, there's a strong desire to get outside and explore the state. The weekend shuttle offers a convenient way to get to the path without having to think about finding parking, and with the new service hours, visitors can stay later to enjoy the bridge lighting and dine out in local villages. We thank NYSDOT for the on-going partnership.'

Senator Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, 'As we work to build back better, tourism will be critical to New York's economy. The state-of-the-art bike and pedestrian path on the new bridge attracts visitors from all over, and free weekend shuttle service will only enhance access and increase safety to the path, just in time for the warmer weather.'

Assemblymember Mike Lawler said, 'I'm glad to see the NYS DOT providing this service once again. It's another encouraging sign that we are putting COVID-19 in the rearview mirror. The bridge path is a wonderful attraction for our region and I encourage everyone to get out there and use it this summer.'

Assemblymember Kenneth Zebrowski said, 'The shared use path is truly a unique attraction that sits right in our backyard for both pedestrians and cyclists and this free shuttle will allow even more Rocklanders to take advantage of it. Thank you to the Department of Transportation and Commissioner Dominguez for your on-going commitment to expanding opportunities for New Yorkers to share our roadways.'

Hudson Link Operations Manager Marjorie Chin said, 'The Hudson Link is proud to service the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge path shuttle for the second year. We are excited that the free shuttle service is beginning this year on Mother's Day weekend. The path is a wonderful opportunity for local families and visitors to experience the breathtaking views from the path's lookout vistas, as well as to explore the beautiful surrounding towns of Tarrytown and Nyack.'

Motorists are reminded to Move Over a lane, if safely possible, or slow down significantly whenever encountering roadside vehicles displaying red, white, blue, amber or green lights, including maintenance and construction vehicles in work zones.

Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual's driver license.

For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511ny.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Follow New York State DOT on Twitter: @NYSDOT and @NYSDOTHV. Find NYSDOT on Facebook at facebook.com/NYSDOT.

Follow Hudson Link on Twitter @RideHudsonLink or visit https://www.ridehudsonlink.com.

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