Port Authority Bayonne Bridge project delayed, costs may climb

The $1.3 billion “Raise the Roadway” project, which will allow for large container ships to enter the region’s ports, is now expected to be fully completed by mid-2019. However, the Port Authority notes that the bridge should be ready to offer its desired navigational clearance to ships by the end of 2017.

Officials initially believed navigational clearance would be achieved by 2016, potentially even as early as late 2015.

With the delays, the Port Authority notes that the project could incur a potential cost increase of 15 percent.

The joint venture of Skanska Koch and Keiwit Infrastructure is in charge of construction.

“The Bayonne Bridge’s ‘Raise the Roadway’ project is one of the most innovative and challenging projects the Port Authority has ever undertaken, and will help maintain our position as the East Coast’s premier port for international trade,” Executive Director Pat Foye said.

“Although a number of challenges have impacted the project’s timetable, we continue to monitor the Skanska JV’s construction progress and, together with Skanska JV, anticipate completion within the schedule announced today.”

According to the Port Authority, $380 million has already been spent on the project, which is nearly 50 percent complete.