MIDDLETOWN –Middletown officials have received word that Monmouth County will get more than $2 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to replace the Bray Avenue Bridge.
“This sorely needed funding will pave the way toward replacement of the Bray Avenue Bridge,” said Mayor Stephanie Murray. “The closure of this bridge has been an inconvenience for emergency responders and area motorists. We’re all looking forward to the day when Monmouth County can safely open it again.”
Monmouth County, which maintains the bridge, had to close it after Superstorm Sandy due to structural damage. The defunct span separates the Port Monmouth and North Middletown sections of town. All vehicular traffic between Main Street and Thompson Avenue has been detoured since January 2013.
“The township appreciates the assistance Congressmen Chris Smith and Frank Pallone provided to convince FEMA to fund this much needed project,” Murray said.
The $2,006,208.90 award represents 90 percent of the estimated cost of $2.2 million for the project, according to Congressman Chris Smith’s office. The county’s replacement project will include relocation of utilities, addressing right of way and environmental issues and securing permits.
Congressman Smith, along with Mayor Stephanie Murray and Committeeman Anthony Fiore, visited Middletown’s Bayshore last fall to survey damaged caused by Superstorm Sandy. The visit included stops at the Bray Avenue Bridge and Ideal Beach.
From left are: Middletown Mayor Stephanie C. Murray, Congressman Chris Smith, Middletown Township Committeeman Anthony P. Fiore and Joseph Strafaci with the Monmouth County Engineer’s Office.