Bridge demolition delayed

Highlands residents and visitors can escape increased traffic this July Fourth.

After Senator Sean Kean's urging, the Monmouth County representative and New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Kris Kolluri came to an agreement to postpone demolition of half the Route 36 bridge, and the loss of two lanes, until after the holiday.

"With the influx of tourists during the summer, traffic congestion in this area is already a serious problem," Kean said. "Closing lanes of the bridge during the summer will only add to an already difficult traffic situation.

The demolition and the shift of traffic to the northbound side of the bridge was slated for June 23.

DOT Director of Communications Erin Phalon said the state agency would be working on electronic communication and monitoring equipment before the intended plans continue.

Check for a more detailed story in Thursday's Courier.

-- Alyssa Passeggio