FORT LEE, N.J. — Drivers who use the George Washington Bridge should prepare for months of detours and delays.

According to the Staten Island Advance, major traffic changes will take effect Aug. 14 as the Port Authority launches the next phase of its massive $2 billion "Restoring the George" rehabilitation project.

The work will bring long-term lane, ramp and sidewalk closures around the bridge's Fort Lee approach and is expected to remain in place through December 2026.

Among the biggest changes, the right lanes and sidewalk on the northbound Center Avenue bridge over the George Washington Bridge approach will close for rehabilitation.

The project will also shut down the ramp from New Jersey-bound Interstate 95 to Center Avenue and the ramp from Center Avenue to the New York-bound lanes of I-95.

Drivers heading to and from the bridge should expect detours through Fort Lee, particularly around Center Avenue and Bruce Reynolds Boulevard.

Officials said two travel lanes will remain open throughout construction, but warned motorists to allow extra travel time and follow posted detours.

Other impacts include lane restrictions on Bruce Reynolds Boulevard between Lemoine and Center avenues and the closure of the Center Avenue ramp leading to the upper level of the George Washington Bridge. Drivers heading into New York will instead be rerouted via Bruce Reynolds Boulevard and the Park Avenue entrance to I-95.

Separate detour routes will be posted for passenger vehicles, buses and trucks.

Pedestrians will also face changes. The north sidewalk on Bruce Reynolds Boulevard between Lemoine Avenue and Center Avenue will close, with walkers redirected to the south sidewalk. On Center Avenue, the east sidewalk will also close, shifting foot traffic to the west side.

The construction is part of the Port Authority's ongoing effort to modernize the nearly century-old George Washington Bridge. The agency said the upgraded Center Avenue overpass will feature improved structural components, new lighting and enhanced roadway and pedestrian safety features once work is complete.

NJ Transit riders are also encouraged to check for possible bus stop or route changes during construction.

For Bergen County commuters who rely on the George Washington Bridge each day, officials say the message is simple: expect delays and plan ahead.