Glimmer Glass Detours Could Last for Months

Monmouth County officials say repairing the damage caused when an overweight truck crossed the Glimmer Glass Bridge on August 7 will take considerably longer than they originally expected.

Initial estimates showed the 279-foot span between Manasquan and Brielle would have to be closed for only a few weeks, but Freeholder Tom Arnone says that turned out not to be the case.

"Through our inspection that was completed, we determined that it needed repairs," Arnone said.  "Unfortunately, in this case, unlike probably some of the others, they're going to be quite significant."

Engineers now anticipate the closure could last up to ten months, while crews repair and reinforce the bridge deck and pilings.  Traffic will be detoured throughout that time, but Arnone says there is a silver lining.

"We're going to start to do some of the other areas that will entail some repairs that will... eliminate the flooding that occurs there," Arnone said.

Motor vehicle traffic will be detoured to Route 71 during the bridge closure.  For detailed directions for the detour, click here.

Police are still searching for the driver of the truck that caused the damage to the bridge.  If you have any information that would assist in their investigation, you should contact the Manasquan Police Department at 732-223-1000.