FALL RIVER — The years of labor are paying off.

Fifteen years since work began on the Braga Bridge and six years since a short reprieve, all three lanes on the eastbound side of the Braga Bridge are open.

The rest of the good news is that the westbound lanes are set to fully open late next week according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

The milestone accomplishment has people talking and here's what some of them are saying:

MassDOT Highway Division Administrator Thomas Tinlin: “The over $227 million investment in Route 79 and Braga Bridge Project will have a lasting and meaningful impact for Fall River. The news that for the first time since 2001 we have all three lanes heading eastbound is exciting, and I couldn’t be happier with the progress of construction.”

State Senator Michael Rodrigues: “The Route 79/Braga Bridge mega project will bring many benefits to Fall River but none may be as noticeable as restoring all 3 lanes on the Braga Bridge. I continue to be impressed at the pace of construction and I’m absolutely thrilled that we are achieving these major milestones ahead of schedule and look forward to the restoration of lanes on the westbound side.”

State Rep. Paul Schmid: “Hats off to MassDOT for managing the rebuild of the Braga Bridge and the Route 79 Interchange. Both of these projects will change the face of Fall River for generations.”

State Rep. Carole Fiola: “After 15 long years we finally have 3 eastbound lanes open for traffic! I'd like to thank MassDOT and Barletta Construction and their vendors for their hard work but most of all our very patient residents and visitors who will soon have complete smooth sailing over our iconic Braga Bridge. Clearly a reason to celebrate!”

State Rep. Alan Silvia: “I am delighted and happy to see our bridge open. Having the community see the work ongoing it’s great to see these results especially with the holidays approaching.”

While the lanes are open, MassDOT does warn some closures may return.

"There may be intermittent short-term lane closures over the next few months to complete punch list items," MassDOT said in a press release.

Wow. All 3 eastbound lanes of the Braga Bridge are open. Mark the date.

— Mr. President (@PartyMarker) October 7, 2016