Local construction workers who have been struggling to find work in the recession are welcoming the fast-tracking of the Tappan Zee Bridge project.

"It's a struggle right now," says ironworker Jose Cruz. "I love what I do. I just wish I could do more of it."

While President Barack Obama's announcement will help speed up approvals for the project, it doesn't help with securing the estimated $16 billion in funding needed to make it happen. Cruz says while he'd love to see the plan become a reality soon, he is not holding his breath.

"I'll keep looking for work other places, keep out there, keep doing what I'm doing," he says.