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Mantoloking Bridge Closed After Fire, Causing Traffic Delays

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ge-closed-after-fire-causing-traffic-delays.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 16:52 GMT by app.com
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

MANTOLOKING, N.J. - A significant disruption is impacting travel along the Jersey Shore today as the Mantoloking Bridge in Ocean County remains closed following a fire that broke out early Friday morning. The closure is causing substantial traffic delays and raising concerns about the long-term accessibility of this vital transportation link between mainland Ocean County and the barrier island communities of Mantoloking, Bay Head, and Point Pleasant Beach.

The Ocean County Sheriff's Department confirmed the fire and subsequent bridge closure shortly after 7:00 AM EST. While the exact cause of the blaze is still under investigation, initial reports suggest it originated within the bridge's internal mechanisms, potentially involving electrical systems. Fire crews responded quickly, successfully containing the fire, but not before significant damage was sustained.

"Our primary concern right now is public safety and a thorough assessment of the bridge's structural integrity," stated Sheriff Michael Mastronardy in a press briefing. "We're working with structural engineers to determine the extent of the damage and establish a timeline for repairs. Until we have that information, the bridge will remain closed to all traffic - vehicular, pedestrian, and marine."

The Mantoloking Bridge is a critical artery for residents and visitors alike. It carries Route 528, the primary access point for the popular beach towns of Mantoloking and Bay Head, and serves as a crucial alternative route during peak season when congestion on the Garden State Parkway is often severe. Its closure immediately caused a ripple effect of traffic problems, with significant backups reported on Route 35 and local side streets.

Local businesses are bracing for potential economic impact. The President of the Bay Head Business Association, Sarah Miller, expressed concern about the timing of the closure. "February isn't our peak season, but the bridge is still used daily by residents and for deliveries to businesses. A prolonged closure will definitely affect our operations, particularly with winter storm clean up continuing in some areas. We're hoping for a swift and safe resolution."

Engineers are currently conducting a detailed inspection, utilizing advanced non-destructive testing methods to identify any compromised structural elements. The inspection focuses not only on the visible fire damage but also on potential heat-related stress to the steel and concrete components of the bridge. Sources close to the investigation indicate that the damage appears concentrated within the central span, which raises the possibility of complex and lengthy repairs.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) is working closely with the Ocean County Sheriff's Department and local authorities to manage the traffic flow and develop detour routes. NJDOT spokesperson, Robert Carter, urged motorists to utilize the Garden State Parkway or Route 35 as alternate routes, but cautioned that these roads are already experiencing increased volume. "We understand the inconvenience this closure is causing, and we are committed to restoring access as quickly and safely as possible," Carter stated. "We encourage commuters to check the NJDOT website and social media channels for real-time traffic updates."

This isn't the first time the Mantoloking Bridge has faced significant challenges. The bridge suffered substantial damage during Superstorm Sandy in 2012, requiring extensive reconstruction. That experience, while devastating, has equipped the region with valuable knowledge and resources for responding to infrastructure emergencies. The current situation, however, presents a different set of challenges, requiring a focused assessment of the specific fire damage and its impact on the bridge's long-term stability.

Ocean County officials are exploring all available options to expedite the repair process, including potentially utilizing emergency funding and prioritizing the project within the state transportation plan. A timeline for reopening the Mantoloking Bridge remains uncertain, but authorities promise to provide regular updates as the investigation progresses and repair plans are finalized. Residents and visitors are advised to stay tuned to local news outlets and NJDOT for the latest information and to allow extra travel time when navigating the area.