The reconstruction of the Kent Road bridge over the North Branch of the Metedeconk River at the Lakewood / Howell border, which has closed Kent Road to vehicular traffic since November, is now anticipated to be completed the week of August 9th, Tom Arnone, the Monmouth County Commissioner Director confirmed to LNN.
The contractor originally anticipated reopening the bridge by the end of this week.
The construction includes the demolition of the existing bridge and installation of a new single-span two land bridge with a sidewalk and approach roadway and drainage improvements.
Pedestrian traffic remains open. Only vehicular traffic is closed 24/7.
“Please be reminded that although the bridge and road will be reopened to vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the very near future, contract punch list work may continue for several more weeks after the reopening”, said Commissioner Director Arnone, adding, “we appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we approach completion of this critical bridge crossing which will provide safe and reliable travel between the municipalities of Howell and Lakewood for many years to come”.
The Monmouth County Board of Freeholders awarded the contract for replacement of the bridge, on July 15, 2020, to C.J. Hesse, Inc. of Highlands NJ, for $2,212,012.12. This was the lowest bid received out of 7 bids received.
$1,184,052.61 of the total award is being funded by a NJDOT Transportation Trust Fund the county was awarded in 2018 for this project.
The county also awarded CME Associates of Parlin NJ a $169,058.00 contract to provide Professional Engineering Services for the inspection and contract administration of the bridge replacement project.
UPDATE: Kent Road to remain closed until the week of August 9th
