Bridge in Port Republic, NJ, Reopening After 2 Years of Work

After years of uncertainty and reconstruction, a busy bridge in Atlantic County is ready to reopen.

Officials with the county say this Friday, September 29th, the Port Republic Bridge that carries traffic over Nacote Creek on Old New York Road will reopen to traffic.

This news comes as the county spent $12.5 million replacing the structure along with improvements to roads in the immediate area.

Officials point out that while the project is "substantially complete," there are some finishing touches that need to happen and some minor late closures may happen over the next several days.

County Executive Dennis Levinson remarked in a press release,

We are pleased to complete the replacement of this bridge that is integral to the residents of Port Republic and visitors to this exceptional community that was recently recognized as the best Jersey shore town.

The new bridge maintains the original alignment but now includes a 5-foot-wide shoulder and a sidewalk.

• NUMBER ONE: This Small City — Population Only 1,100 — Ranked #1 New Jersey Shore Town

Along with the new bridge, the Pitney Road / Riverside Drive / Old New York Road intersection was constructed for better traffic flow and safety.

Residents in the area have dealt with bridge issues here for years.

In 2017, traffic was reduced to one alternating lane. Two years later, a portion of the bridge was closed due to deteriorating conditions. Full replacement work began in the summer of 2021.