Phillipsburg bridge remains closed to vehicles after inspection finds critical structural issues

PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. (Warren County) — A key bridge on South Main Street in Phillipsburg will remain closed to vehicular traffic after a recent inspection found severe structural concerns, according to state and local officials.

During a conference call Tuesday involving the Governor’s Office, New Jersey Department of Transportation, local legislators and county and municipal leaders, officials said an NJDOT inspection determined the bridge’s structural and load rating is currently at zero.

As a result, the concrete bridge adjacent to the black truss bridge will remain closed to vehicles but is still open to pedestrians while repairs are planned and carried out.

State officials said repairs will be conducted in phases, beginning with temporary fixes aimed at reopening the bridge to limited traffic, followed by longer-term structural work.

NJDOT is expected to complete temporary construction plans by May 4. If coordination with Norfolk Southern, which operates the nearby railroad, proceeds as expected, the bridge could reopen to limited traffic — one lane in each direction — by early July.

Local leaders said restoring access is a priority but emphasized that safety remains the top concern.

Officials also said they are working to address the economic impact of the closure on nearby residents and businesses.

Efforts are underway among state legislators, county commissioners and local officials to explore possible economic relief measures in coordination with the Governor’s Office.

The timeline for full, long-term repairs has not yet been determined.