State to Provide $1 Million Toward Bridge Project
7/11/2012

TOMS RIVER – While Ocean County prepares to go to bid to replace the Atlantis Bridge in Little Egg Harbor Township, the state is getting ready to provide $1 million toward the project.

"We learned earlier this week that this particular bridge replacement is eligible for state funding in the amount of $1 million," announced Freeholder John P. Kelly, Director of Law and Public Safety. "I want to thank the state for this annual allotment in state aid. It will be a benefit toward this project."

The total timber span which crosses over Big Creek at Radio Road in Little Egg Harbor Township, has reached the end of its life cycle and will be replaced by the County. The county is expected to go out to bid on the project in about two weeks.

The work will include replacing the two-lane bridge with a new span consisting of precast box beams supported on concrete pier caps and abutments.

The bridge will be replaced through stage construction and two way traffic will be maintained during construction.

"This is the access to Osborn Island so to be able to keep traffic flowing during construction will be a real benefit to residents and visitors," Kelly said. "The new structure will be a safer span that will be an advantage to motorists."

Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little said he was pleased the project was eligible for the state aid.

"Our engineering department requested state funding for this project and we are pleased to be receiving it," Little said.

The bridge replacement is expected to cost between $4.5 million and $5 million.