Repairs Shut Glimmer Glass Bridge In Manasquan For Up To 3 Months

MANASQUAN – The Glimmer Glass Bridge will be closed for up to three months as work continues on the span, officials said.

The problem stems originally from a gearbox and motor that seized. The gearbox is 50 years old. The company that made it is still in operation "but refuses to get involved," Manasquan officials said.

Here's what the town is also saying:

• The county has to send the gearbox and motor to a company in Maine that is willing to examine the problem. The box has to be "broken" open (it is completely sealed) and the problem diagnosed and repaired if possible (part availability, etc). The motor has to be replaced as well.
• Simultaneously, Monmouth County is considering bringing in a consultant to study the issue and determine whether a newer style gearbox might work. If so, and the old one is restored, there would be a backup so that a long outage for this cause in the future could be avoided.
• What has also been determined is that the pulleys (which are the only remaining original part on the bridge) are shot. The top shaft that they attach to (which is undersized) and the pulleys themselves will be replaced during this period.
• Because the bridge is on the state and national historic register, the work is delayed while those offices are brought up to speed and weigh in.
• The county is "very aware of the public inconvenience and the public safety threat these circumstances present. "