I just reread your request and realized I got this backwards.
So, read it from the bottom up. Or plot it on Street Atlas and the hit "Reverse Route".
As a long time resident (refugee) from Mystic/Stonington, I used the Tappen Zee Bridge and the Garden State Parkway to the New Jersey Turnpike for this route. I was never driving anything very large in those days, but they allow trucks now.
So, since you and the 5er can't take the Merrit, you can run down I-95 about one exit into NY then pick up I-684 to I-287 to the TZ. Stay with 287 until you can get to GSP and take that south to NJTP.
Safe Travel
Matt
