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Route 71 Bridge closed between Belmar and Avon

New Jersey Department of Transportation officials say a failure of mechanical components is once again causing the old draw bridge to not function properly.

Tony Caputo

Jun 18, 2025, 10:31 AM

Updated 4 hr ago

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There is another potential problem for business owners near the Route 71 Bridge over the Shark River Inlet.
The bridge is once again broken. New Jersey Department of Transportation officials say a failure of mechanical components is once again causing the old draw bridge to not function properly.
The bridge was built in 1932. There is a long-term replacement in the works but not for several years.
Because maritime traffic has the right of way, the bridge is being held open with help from a crane. This means vehicular traffic will need to use another bridge to get over Shark River.
Last year, the bridge was affected for three months leading to Memorial Day.
DOT does not have a time frame on repairs.