ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo plans to appeal a decision by federal regulators to reject his plan to use clean water funds to help finance the new Tappan Zee Bridge.

The Environmental Protection Agency said earlier this week it had rejected $482 million of the $511 million in clean-water loans Cuomo wanted for the bridge.

The administration says the loans would reduce the bridge’s $3.9 billion cost while helping to mitigate its environmental impact. Cuomo says the EPA decision won’t affect the replacement project.

The EPA specifically rejected proposals to use the loans for dredging and removing the existing span. The agency authorized $29 million for smaller related projects including marsh restoration.

Environmental groups praised the decision, saying funds for drinking water, sewers and other water projects shouldn’t pay for bridge construction.

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