For Immediate Release:
June 18, 2025

Monmouth County Commissioner Director issues statement regarding the indefinite closure of the Route 71 bridge over Shark River

FREEHOLD, NJ – On behalf of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone issued the following statement regarding the indefinite closure of the Route 71 bridge over Shark River:

“The extended closure of the Route 71 bridge is deeply concerning and undeniably disruptive for residents, businesses, and visitors who rely on this important connection between Belmar and Avon-by-the-Sea, especially during the summer months. This situation highlights the critical importance of ongoing, proactive maintenance of our aging infrastructure.

While we understand that the bridge is nearly a century old, it’s clear that this mechanical failure could have been avoided with consistent preventative maintenance. It’s unfortunate that we are now facing a long-term closure due to a situation that might have been prevented.

We recognize that NJDOT is actively assessing the damage and working on a path forward, and we urge all involved agencies to treat this situation with urgency. In the meantime, the County will continue to advocate for transparent communication, timely updates, and long-term solutions that ensure safe and reliable infrastructure across Monmouth County.

Residents deserve to have confidence that vital transportation links like the Route 71 bridge are being maintained before reaching a point of failure. We stand ready to support efforts to restore access as quickly and safely as possible and to work toward stronger infrastructure planning in the years ahead.”

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