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DOT tells Belmar council reinforcement will keep busy drawbridge operating through summer but replacement part due in fall
Summary
Council relayed a DOT update that concrete reinforcement to the north leaf of a heavily used drawbridge is underway to keep the bridge operable through summer; a mechanical replacement part is being manufactured in Florida but DOT could not confirm delivery timing and said full repairs are planned for a fall closure window.
Council members provided an update on a recurring drawbridge closure after communications with the state Department of Transportation.
According to the report relayed at the meeting, DOT reinforced concrete on the bridge’s damaged north leaf to try to preserve operation through the summer boating and tourism season. Council members said the replacement mechanical component for the drawbridge is being manufactured in Florida and is being expedited, but DOT could not provide a firm delivery date. For that reason the department cautioned there are no guarantees the temporary reinforcement will hold for the entire season and indicated a full mechanical replacement is expected during a scheduled fall closure.
Council members emphasized DOT officials had listened to concerns from the mayors and business owners in Belmar and Avon and are attempting a stopgap repair to minimize summer disruption. Officials said the reinforced concrete work could be in place by mid‑August, while the new mechanical part remains subject to manufacturing and shipping timelines.
Why it matters: the bridge is heavily used by marina traffic and local businesses rely on reliable opening and closing; a mid‑season mechanical failure would require an unscheduled closure with effects on marine and commercial traffic.
Next steps: council members said they will continue to press DOT for firm delivery dates for the replacement part and notify businesses and residents of any change to the bridge’s operational schedule.
