Broken bridge at the jersey shore remains stuck open as free shuttle service

Broken Bridge at the Jersey Shore Remains Stuck Open as Free Shuttle Service

by
May 1, 2024
··

Free Shuttle Service Announced for Route 71 Bridge Users

AVON-BY-THE-SEA, NJ—The Route 71 bridge over the Shark River, connecting Avon and Belmar, has been inoperable since early March due to being stuck in the open position. In response, the New Jersey Department of Transportation has announced a free shuttle service for those affected by the disruption.

Starting Wednesday morning, the shuttle will operate between the business districts of Belmar and Avon-by-the-Sea. This service will continue until the bridge is repaired, providing a vital connection for commuters and residents of the two communities.

On Friday March 1, the Route 71 Bridge over Shark River experienced a mechanical failure resulting in significant damage to the machinery of the North Bridge leaf. At this time, the movable bridge is nonoperational.

NJDOT is actively working to design a permanent repair as quickly as possible. The bridge will remain in the fully-open position to allow all marine traffic to pass through until the emergency repairs are complete, which is expected to take several months.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.