8-01-2023 12:22pm

Schooley’s Mountain Road Bridge Reopens Three Weeks Early

The 150-year-old historic bridge in Washington Township is set to reopen today, August 1, three weeks ahead of schedule.

In a triumphant ribbon-cutting ceremony held Monday, August 1, Morris County officials announced the reopening of the historic Schooley’s Mountain Road bridge. The bridge's vital rehabilitation project was completed three weeks ahead of the initially planned schedule.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ – The residents of Morris County, particularly in the Long Valley community, will once again have access to the historic Schooley’s Mountain Road bridge, a 150-year-old structure that was successfully rehabilitated ahead of schedule.

Who: The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus, Commissioner Doug Cabana, and Washington Township Mayor Matt Murello on Monday, July 31, 2023.

What: The reopening of the bridge is part of a $1,008,000 project funded by Morris County. The work involved the reconstruction of the downstream (western) stone spandrel wall and a series of structural enhancements.

When: The project began on Friday, June 16, 2023, and was divided into two phases. Despite heavy rains and challenges, the completion came three weeks ahead of the original deadline set for August 23, 2023.

Where: Located in the German Valley Historic District, the bridge serves as a key link for the Long Valley community.

Why: The vital bridge allows travelers to safely cross on a newly paved surface. The improvements made will extend the life of the bridge for another 30 to 40 years.

How: The construction was performed by CMS Construction Corporation of Plainfield, New Jersey, working Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some Saturdays and overnight work.

Commissioner Stephen Shaw praised the completion, saying, “This was a substantial project on a historic structure. Everyone involved should feel proud of what was accomplished.” He further acknowledged the tremendous effort by the county's employees, Washington Township, and the contractor.

Mayor Matt Murello expressed enthusiasm and gratitude: “We couldn't ask for a better partnership in having this bridge done. I can't wait to get people back over the road and get these detours out of town. And then we can start working on repaving some of those roads… I want to thank the county and all the partners for getting this done.”

The county’s commitment to maintaining roads and bridges is evident, with five bridge projects completed since last year. With Schooley’s Mountain Bridge completed the next focus will be on the demolition and replacement of the Richard Avenue Bridge in the Town of Dover and the reconstruction of the historic bridge over Mill Brook in Randolph.

The new and improved Schooley’s Mountain Road bridge, enhanced with lightweight concrete, a waterproof membrane, and other structural enhancements, will continue to serve the community well into the future. No rehabilitation was necessary on the upstream wall, as it remains in excellent condition since previous reinforcements in 1994.