County officials described a multi‑phase plan July 8 to rebuild 2.2 miles of Ocean Drive in Lower Township, replace three bridges and raise portions of the roadway, with a new preliminary cost estimate of about $350 million and a federal grant application planned by Aug. 1, the county engineer said.
The presentation by County Engineer Mr. Church outlined a corridor project beginning at Route 109 and extending along Ocean Drive to Madison Avenue that would replace three existing bridges and the culvert at Lower Thorofare near Two Mile Landing, raise the roadway by roughly 4 feet and include a new Middle Thorofare crossing described in the presentation as a “2000’ high span fixed bridge with an 80’ clearance” to accommodate commercial fishing traffic. The project remains in preliminary engineering with Michael Baker International as the consultant; the county engineer said the design phase will take about four to five years.
The county’s 2019 estimate for the project was $220 million; Church told commissioners that because of inflation and current assumptions the mid‑construction cost estimate is now about $350 million. To reduce the county share, staff said they are exploring wetlands mitigation credits and phasing work. Church said stakeholder agencies have been cooperative and that the department will apply for a grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and has a conference call scheduled with Congressman VanDrew; the application is expected by Aug. 1.
Why it matters: Ocean Drive is a primary coastal route; the presentation emphasized both maritime access and pedestrian safety. The plan includes a 10‑foot shared‑use path separated from traffic for pedestrians and cyclists, modeled on the 9th Street Bridge into Ocean City, and the engineer said the fishing industry has been supportive and “have lobbied on the County’s behalf.” Director Desiderio asked members of the Ad Hoc Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs to contact federal and state legislators to advocate for funding.
Details and timeline: Mr. Church said the preliminary engineering stage will include permitting, right‑of‑way and utility coordination. He estimated the construction midpoint at roughly eight years from now and said the construction package is likely to go out to bid in about six years because multiple agencies must be coordinated. Commissioner Morey asked whether bridge aesthetics would be included in the contract; Church said aesthetic and final design elements will be decided in the final design phase. Vice Director Bulakowski asked about parapet and walkway options; Church said pedestrian and bicycle access is a “key component” and confirmed the 10‑foot separated shared path.
Public‑agency steps and next actions: staff will proceed with permitting and design work, submit the federal grant application by Aug. 1, and pursue outreach to legislators and the congressman to seek additional funding. No formal vote or appropriation was taken at the July 8 meeting.