Route 37 Mathis Bridge Testing to Bring Overnight Traffic Stoppages
TOMS RIVER, NJ — Drivers traveling between Toms River and Seaside Heights should expect overnight traffic disruptions on Route 37 later this month as the New Jersey Department of Transportation conducts testing on the Mathis Bridge.
The eastbound Route 37 bridge over Barnegat Bay is scheduled for testing beginning at 9 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, and continuing until 5 a.m. Thursday, October 29, according to
NJDOT.
During the overnight work, motorists can expect 15-minute traffic stoppages while crews perform testing on the movable bridge. Attenuator trucks will be positioned to temporarily block traffic as the testing takes place.
The work is part of the National Bridge Inspection Standards' required biannual inspections of bridges throughout New Jersey. As part of the inspection process, movable bridges undergo interlock safety testing to make sure the bridge can operate safely for both motorists and marine traffic.
The Route 37 Mathis and Tunney bridges connect the mainland in Toms River with Pelican Island and Seaside Heights, carrying traffic across Barnegat Bay.
NJDOT is advising motorists to slow down, use caution around the work zone and allow extra travel time during the overnight testing.
Drivers should also monitor updated traffic conditions before traveling. NJDOT provides real-time traffic alerts and road information through
511NJ.
The scheduled work is expected to be limited to the overnight testing period, with traffic stoppages occurring as crews conduct the required inspections.
