A higher Bayonne Bridge is finally set to open

BAYONNE — Authorities say the Bayonne Bridge is set to open to drivers next week.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey says the bridge connecting Hudson County to Staten Island will open Monday after years of work to raise the deck.

Construction on the $1.3 billion project to allow bigger cargo ships to reach New York City-area ports began in 2013. The roadway was raised to 215 feet above the Kill van Kull, 64 feet above the original deck.

The previous height limited the size of vessels that could pass underneath on their way to the ports of Newark and Elizabeth. Ships' masts passed mere feet below the span.

The bridge will use a cashless toll system, using a combination of EZ Pass and mailed tolls.

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