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MTA Enforces Truck Ban on All Bridges Amid High Wind Forecast

March 6, 2025
2 mins read
Verrazzano Bridge, lightning, dramatic night. Photo Source: mta.info.
Verrazzano Bridge, lightning, dramatic night. Photo Source: mta.info.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has pulled the emergency brake on certain truck traffic across its bridges. Heavy winds forecast for today have triggered a safety protocol banning empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks from all MTA crossings.

The restriction kicks in at 10:00 a.m. sharp today (Wednesday, March 5) and will likely remain in force until 6:00 a.m. Thursday, March 6, according to the official MTA announcement released this morning.

“Due to heavy wind in the forecast, it is implementing a ban on empty tractor-trailers and tandem (piggyback, dual, triple, etc.) trucks on its bridges,” the MTA stated in their press release.

This isn’t a partial measure. All seven MTA spans fall under the restriction: Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, Cross Bay Bridge, Henry Hudson Bridge, Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge, Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, Throgs Neck Bridge, and Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

Foot traffic is also affected. The pedestrian walkways at Cross Bay Bridge and Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge have been closed – a precautionary measure during high-wind events.

The timing aligns with weather data showing a storm expected to hit New York City, bringing both heavy rainfall and strong wind gusts. These conditions make high-profile, lightweight vehicles particularly vulnerable to dangerous sway and potential tipping.

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MTA officials emphasize these times could shift as weather patterns evolve. They’re directing motorists to mta.info for real-time status updates. Commuters can also register for immediate email and SMS alerts through the MTA Bridges and Tunnels alert system to stay ahead of changing conditions.

For commercial haulers, this means potential route changes and delays as they adjust to temporary bridge access limitations.

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FAQ

Which vehicles are affected by the MTA bridge ban? The ban specifically affects empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks (also called piggyback, dual, triple trucks). Other vehicles can continue to use the bridges as normal, though all motorists should exercise caution during high winds.
How long will the bridge ban last? According to the MTA, the ban is scheduled to start at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 5, and is expected to last until approximately 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 6. However, these times may change depending on actual weather conditions.
Which bridges are included in the ban? The ban applies to all MTA bridges, specifically including the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, Cross Bay Bridge, Henry Hudson Bridge, Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge, Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, Throgs Neck Bridge, and Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
Are pedestrian walkways affected by the ban? Yes, pedestrian walkways at the Cross Bay Bridge and Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge have been closed due to safety concerns related to the high winds.
How can I get real-time updates about the bridge conditions? Motorists can visit mta.info for real-time service updates. The MTA also offers email and SMS alerts that can be set up through their website to receive immediate notifications about changing conditions.
Why does the MTA implement these bans during high winds? Empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks have large surface areas but relatively light weights when empty, making them particularly vulnerable to being pushed or tipped over by strong winds. The ban is implemented as a safety measure to prevent accidents that could endanger drivers and other motorists.
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Rahul Somvanshi

Rahul, possessing a profound background in the creative industry, illuminates the unspoken, often confronting revelations and unpleasant subjects, navigating their complexities with a discerning eye. He perpetually questions, explores, and unveils the multifaceted impacts of change and transformation in our global landscape. As an experienced filmmaker and writer, he intricately delves into the realms of sustainability, design, flora and fauna, health, science and technology, mobility, and space, ceaselessly investigating the practical applications and transformative potentials of burgeoning developments.

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