New Goethals Bridge opens

NEW YORK (AP) -- The new Goethals Bridge between New York and New Jersey is now open in both directions. The Staten Island Advance says traffic moved smoothly during the Monday morning rush-hour. The westbound side was opened Sunday night.

The eastbound lanes were opened last June. The new Goethals has three 12-foot lanes in each direction. The old one had two each way, and they were narrower. The bridge also has shoulders that improve access for emergency vehicles. The project began in 2013 and cost around $1.5 billion.

The Goethals has connected Elizabeth, New Jersey with Staten Island since 1928.

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