Exactly. And the longer they wait, the more it will cost. However, the Tappan Zee would be a top candidate on my list for replacement. I used to love it as a kid, heading up to New england for visits..but I’m cautious now...and take a longer way around. And I wouldn’t necessarily want to see the job go to the lowest bidder.
I first drove across the TZ shortly after it was opened. (Lived in CT)
Wasn't the TZ that drove me further north in frequent trips to CT. It was I-95/NJ Tp rat-race and expense.
From MD, I-83 to Harrisburg, I-81 to Scranton, and I-84 across PA & NY into CT. 60-Miles further but relaxing, cheaper, and usually takes close to the same amount of actual driving time.
Only drawback (for me...the driver) are the snow storms starting in early Dec. OTOH, big plus for the wife is the two casinos an hour-and-a-half apart on I-83.
Therefore, a 6-hour drive takes usually 16-, or 17-hours.