Route 71 Drawbridge Closed For Emergency Repairs: Officials

BELMAR, NJ – New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials have closed the Route 71 drawbridge over Shark River between Belmar and Avon by the Sea for emergency repairs Wednesday morning.

Around 5 a.m., the Route 71 drawbridge over the Shark River between Belmar and Avon by the Sea became stuck partially open. About 4 p.m., the bridge was moved to a more open position so that boat traffic could get through after being prohibited for most of the day.

NJDOT officials have closed Route 71 in both directions until further notice.

Until the investigation and repairs are complete, the following detours are in place:

Route 71 Main Street northbound from Belmar to Avon by the Sea detour:
• Motorists on Route 71 northbound will be directed to turn left onto Eighth Avenue
• Turn right on Route 35
• Continue over the Route 35/Shark River Bridge and follow signs for Avon by the Sea

Route 71 Main Street southbound from Avon by the Sea to Belmar detour:
• Motorists on Route 71 southbound will be directed to turn right onto Sylvania Avenue
• Stay right and take the ramp to Route 35 South/Belmar
• Take Route 35 over the Shark River Bridge into Belmar
• Turn left onto Eighth Avenue and follow to Main Street