George Washington Bridge Traffic: Delays, Alternatives & What to Expect
Are you heading into Manhattan this morning? A series of incidents on the george Washington Bridge (GWB) are causing significant delays, impacting your commute. This article provides the latest updates, choice routes, and a look at why congestion is especially challenging right now. We’ll help you navigate the situation and get to your destination as smoothly as possible.
Current Situation: major Delays on the GWB
Traffic on the George Washington Bridge is experiencing substantial backups following an early morning crash and a subsequent vehicle issue.Initially, a collision shut down two lanes on the inbound upper level shortly after 5 a.m. on Wednesday,December 3,2025. Following this, a stalled tractor-trailer further exacerbated the congestion.
While both incidents have been cleared, the residual effects are causing at least a 45-minute delay for commuters. This impacts anyone traveling from New Jersey into Upper Manhattan.
Understanding the George Washington Bridge
The George Washington Bridge is a vital transportation artery connecting Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan, New York, to Fort Lee in Bergen County, New Jersey. It’s a double-decked structure boasting a total of 14 lanes. Understanding its layout is key to planning your route.
* Upper Level: Primarily carries eastbound (into Manhattan) and westbound (out of Manhattan) traffic.
* Lower Level: Handles local traffic and some through traffic.
* Total Lanes: 14 lanes across both levels.
Alternative Routes to Manhattan
Facing a significant delay on the GWB? Consider these alternative routes to avoid the worst of the congestion:
* Holland Tunnel: Offers a direct route under the Hudson River, connecting Jersey City, New Jersey, to Lower manhattan. https://www.panynj.gov/tunnels/holland-tunnel/
* Lincoln Tunnel: Provides another underwater option, linking Weehawken, New Jersey, to Midtown Manhattan. https://www.panynj.gov/tunnels/lincoln-tunnel/
* Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (Tappan Zee Bridge): For trucks or those traveling further south, heading north to the Cuomo bridge and then south towards New York City can be a viable option. https://www.thruway.ny.gov/bridges/gov-mario-m-cuomo-bridge/
Pro Tip: Before you leave, check real-time traffic conditions using apps like Google maps, Waze, or the NY State Thruway Authority‘s traffic map.
Why is Traffic Worse Today? Gridlock Alert & Holiday Season
Wednesday’s delays aren’t happening in a vacuum. They coincide with the first “Gridlock Alert Day” of December 2025. These days are designated by transportation officials as periods expected to have unusually heavy traffic.
Adding to the challenge, today also marks the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. This iconic event draws massive crowds to Midtown Manhattan, further straining the city’s transportation network.https://www.nycgo.com/events/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-lighting/
Staying Updated: Resources for Commuters
Keeping informed is crucial when navigating traffic disruptions. Here are some valuable resources:
* NY State Thruway Authority: https://www.thruway.ny.gov/ – provides real-time traffic facts and alerts for the GWB and other crossings.
* Port Authority of NY & NJ: https://www.panynj.gov/ – Offers updates on bridge and tunnel conditions, as well as public transportation.
* CBS News New York: [https://wwwcbs[https://wwwcbs[https://wwwcbs[https://wwwcbs
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