Belmar-Avon Bridge to Close Until Spring

Emergency repairs will cause the Shark River drawbridge to close until mid-May.

While this closure will be a headache for many, it is necessary for the safety of travelers. According to the Asbury Park Press, a routine inspection of the bridge found deterioration of gears that supports the bridge during opening and closing.

During repairs, some marine traffic will be permitted, but the bridge that connects Avon and Belmar via Ocean Avenue will be closed to vehicles.

Monmouth County Freeholder Tom Arnone, who is also the liaison to the Department of Public Works and Engineering said:

We understand the inconvenience a closure of this duration represents to those who travel in and around the impacted communities, but the safety of our residents and visitors remains our top priority.

Work on the bridge is expected to begin in a couple of weeks and wrap up before Memorial Day Weekend. Until then, it's time to start finding an alternate route around the Shark River Inlet.

[source: APP]