Port Authority officials have approved more than $1 billion in repairs and improvements for the George Washington Bridge.

The work will include replacing the 82-year-old bridge’s 592 suspender ropes and rehabilitating all of the span’s main cables. New technology will warn engineers of potential structural problems.

The necklace lighting will be replaced with a programmable LED lighting system and access to the sidewalks will be changed to make it easier for people with disabilities and cyclists.

Construction on the suspended ropes is set to begin in 2017 and the overall program is expected to be finished by 2024.

Off-peak traffic lane closings will be required during construction.

(AP)