Electrical Issue Causes Two Hour Mathis Bridge Closure

The Mathis Bridge has reopened after an electrical problem forced a two hour closure Tuesday night.

The eastbound bridge became disabled at 7:20 p.m. Tuesday with an “unknown electrical problem,” said Toms River Chief of Police Michael Mastonardy.

Drivers who wanted to cross over to the barrier island were forced to take Fischer Boulevard to Hooper Avenue, then travel over the Mantoloking Bridge, the chief said.

Sgt. Scott Moeller directed police operations that required turning around the more than 450 vehicles stuck on the bridge during the malfunction, according to Mastronardy. Among them, a tractor trailer and an Ocean Ride bus had to be backed down a major portion of the bridge.

Just as the last vehicles were being directed off the bridge, state Department of Transportation officials were able to restore power and open up two eastbound lanes at 9:21 p.m. Tuesday, Mastronardy said.

“The department wants to thank all of those on the bridge who remained calm and took the inconvenience in stride,” Mastronardy said.