Governor Andrew M. Cuomo this evening held a storm briefing to discuss the winter storm and the reopening of roadways and public transportation in the downstate region. The existing travel ban for all state and local roads in New York City, the Long Island Expressway and Northern State Parkway, and the Port Authority’s trans-Hudson crossings will be lifted at 7:00 a.m. tomorrow, Sunday, January 24. The ban remains in effect until that time and only authorized emergency vehicles, hazard vehicles and critical healthcare personnel will be permitted.

Additionally, the MTA expects to resume limited bus services in New York City tomorrow at 7:00 a.m.

“The travel ban issued earlier today allowed emergency teams to make significant progress in clearing the roads,” Governor Cuomo said. “As crews continue to respond to the storm and the severity of weather conditions decrease, we are lifting the travel ban so New Yorkers can resume their daily routines. Public safety is of paramount importance and we encourage New Yorkers to continue exercising caution while traveling.” ​​

Roads and Bridges

The travel ban on all state and local roads in New York City, the Long Island Expressway and Northern State Parkways, and the Port Authority’s trans-Hudson crossings will be lifted at 7:00 a.m., subject to further changes in the weather forecast.

The trans-Hudson crossings that continue to be closed until 7:00 a.m. tomorrow are: the George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, Bayonne Bridge, Goethals Bridge and Outerbridge Crossing.

While the roads remain closed, only authorized emergency vehicles, hazard vehicles and critical healthcare personnel will be permitted. A violation of the travel ban is punishable as misdemeanor that includes fines of up to $300. Additional fees, fines, and penalties may also be imposed.

Public Transportation
· Buses – The MTA will resume limited bus service at 7:00 a.m. tomorrow. The level of service restoration will be subject to road conditions.
· Subway, LIRR and Metro-North – The MTA is actively monitoring rail conditions through the night and will provide an assessment for restoration of above-ground subways, LIRR, and Metro-North services by 6:00 a.m. The underground portion of the subway system is continuing to operate with limited service.
· PATH – The Port Authority will continue to run the limited weekend schedule tonight and Sunday morning for PATH trains.
Airports

The vast majority of flights have been or will be cancelled tomorrow at LaGuardia and JFK Airports, and the Port Authority is working around the clock to restore operations as the weather clears. The first arrivals and departures are expected to occur Sunday midday. Passengers are urged to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport.

Power

The New York State Public Service Commission will continue its extended Call Center Helpline hours. The Helpline will be available from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. on Sunday and Monday to assist consumers in their storm preparation and restoration efforts. The Department of Public Service Call Center Helpline can be reached by calling 1-800-342-3377.