After reports surfaced the contractors bidding to repair the Tappan Zee Bridge had controversial backgrounds, the state comptroller decided to step in to review the companies.

In December, the Perini Corporation and Tutor-Saliba Corporation put in a joint bid of $146.9 million for the bridge repair project. This was the lowest of seven bids the Thruway Authority received for the project. However, the two companies have a history of cost overruns and allegations of fraud and civil racketeering.

Thruway Authority officials say they know about the past problems and the companies are now in good standing with California?s Transportation Department, as well as the federal government. The state attorney general?s office has already approved the contract with the companies.

The project is set to begin this summer and take about two years to complete. During construction, officials say three of the bridge?s lanes will be closed at night.