The Impact of the Broken Drawbridge: A Decrease in Sales for Avon-by-the-Sea Businesses

The closure of the Route 71 bridge connecting Avon-by-the-Sea and Belmar has had a significant impact on foot and vehicular traffic in the area, leading to a decrease in sales for businesses on Main Street. According to local business owners, the broken drawbridge that is stuck in the up position has caused a decline in revenue ranging from 20% to 45%. The mechanical failure on the 92-year-old bridge occurred on March 1, forcing crews to raise the bridge to allow marine traffic to pass through. However, this decision has unintentionally blocked all Main Street foot and vehicular traffic, diverting customers away from downtown towards the Route 35 bridge.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) is working on building replacement parts for the bridge to expedite the repair process. While their target is to have the bridge open by Memorial Day weekend, detours will remain in place until the completion of the repairs. Store owners have expressed concerns about reduced foot traffic due to the detour that bypasses their shops. With limited access to their stores due to the upped bridge, there has been a significant decrease in customers and sales.

Businesses are feeling the impact of the bridge closure, with slower days of