Before construction work begins this Spring, State Transportation (NJDOT) officials answer questions and listen to concerns about proposed upgrades to the Mathis Bridge in Toms River. During an information session at the township's municipal building Tuesday night, engineers explained the proposed deck replacement, mechanical/electrical upgrades and safety improvement work planned for the east-bound span.

Some residents said the work is long overdue.

"The Mathis Bridge has just gotten older. I mean, it's really showing its age," according to one resident who attended.

Seaside Park Mayor Robert Matthies said ideally, they'd be getting a new bridge but he's happy something is being done.

"The main thing is that, you know, I don't know what would happen if the bridge was left in the condition that it is ... but it can't be good. It's something that had to be done and had to be done as soon as possible."

Matthies also added that the DOT has done a good job in keeping them informed about the project even prior to Tuesday's public information session.

DOT officials and engineers told attendees that they plan to maintain existing lanes of travel during the summer tourism season and do the deck work during the off season. There will be no work on the Tunney Bridge and during the off-season it will be used to carry traffic in both directions when the Mathis Bridge is closed for work.

According to a DOT press release, "The existing eastbound Mathis Bridge deck carrying Route 37 over the Barnegat Bay, exhibits structural deterioration and the effects of aging."

Get the details about the project Here.

Route 37 Mathis Bridge, at NJDOT project web site
Route 37 Mathis Bridge, at NJDOT project web site
loading...

More From 92.7 WOBM