96th Street Bridge Project To Start In Fall

Posted May 19th 2026

Work will begin this fall on the 96th Street bridge with the goal of improving traffic flow and marine access while updating the bridge’s infrastructure.

“The bridge has been deteriorating, and the county has had spot repairs for years and years,” said Stone Harbor Mayor Tim Carney. “It just reached its end of life.”

The first phase of construction will continue until the summer of 2027. This will not change or impede traffic flow for cars or boats, as the construction will begin outside of the current bridge footprint.

The second stage is set for September 2027 through the spring of 2028. A full vertical clearance for marine traffic will be created, and the existing span will be removed. During this stage, cars will need to access Stone Harbor from an alternate entrance.

For the summer of 2028, the town will install a temporary bridge span to make sure traffic runs smoothly throughout the busy season. For larger vessels, there will be a weekly access schedule coordinated through the construction contractor and the Coast Guard.

The third stage is scheduled from the fall of 2028 to the spring of 2029. This will include the installation of the new bascule span, a type of drawbridge. Marine access through the channel will remain open when construction allows but will be closed off at some points.

The final testing of the bridge will occur in the summer of 2029, and it is expected to be fully opened to the public that summer. Some occasional delays can be expected as system testing is run throughout the season. Finishing dates are expected to change as the construction begins; however, the town aims to maintain normal traffic flows for vehicles and marine transportation when able.

This is a long-awaited project for Stone Harbor, as the 96th Street bridge is a major connector from town to the mainland. It also is an historic landmark: In 1911, the 96th Street bridge was dedicated by Gov. Woodrow Wilson, who went on to become the 28th president of the United States. This project will ensure mainland access from 96th Street stays a viable option for many decades to come.

For updates on every step of the 96th Street bridge replacement process, please visit stoneharbornj.org.