Shark River Bridge finally reopens this summer. But it will close again in fall Dan Alexander Published: August 7, 2025 Shark River Bridge in the open position 6/14/25 (Bud McCormick)

☑️ The Route 71 bridge over the Shark River will stay open through Columbus Day

☑️ After Columbus Day the bridge will close again to make permanent repairs

☑️ A plan is already in place to replace the bridge

BELMAR — The Shark River Bridge will temporarily reopen to vehicles and pedestrians Thursday night for the rest of the summer.

The 93-year-old bridge between Belmar and Avon-by-the-Sea, also known as Route 71, was completely closed on June 13 when the South Bridge leaf suffered a mechanical failure and unable to go up and down.

The bridge was required to stay in the up position in order to

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