The aging Tappan Zee Bridge may be up for sale if lawmakers consider a proposal to sell the span to a private company.

Major construction firms and investment groups are considering the idea of leasing the bridge. If so, the company recovers the cost that it incurs during the term. The costs included repairs to the existing bridge and possibly money for replacing the bridge. Currently, repairing the bridge is estimated at $2 billion and replacing it around $14 billion. Authorities say the income the Thruway Authority gains through tolls is not sufficient for a project of the scope and size of the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Governor George Pataki (R-NY) proposed the concept last year but it was turned down by the Legislature. He is expected to once again make the proposal to sell off pieces of the state highway system again this year, which would include the Tappan Zee Bridge.

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