Updated Barrier Island Access Schedule Announced

With natural gas system pressurization expected to be completed before this weekend in Toms River's barrier island, the township has announced a re-entry schedule through the end of December. 

The updated schedule runs from Monday, Dec. 17 through the end of December and outlines when each of the barrier island's three zones — East, Middle and West — are permitted to enter, according to the complete list posted to the township's website. 

The East and Middle zones will be the first allowed in on Dec. 17 and 18, followed by the East and West zones on Dec. 19 and 20 and the Middle and West zones on Dec. 21, the plan shows.

All zones are scheduled to be open on from Dec. 22 through Dec. 24 and again on Dec. 26. No one will be allowed on the barrier island Christmas Day, Dec. 25, according to the schedule. 

New Jersey Natural Gas crews have been inspecting their system this week as gas lines in the area are re-activated. The entirety of the barrier island is expected to be open for the weekend of Dec. 15, the township has announced.

Customers who smell gas are advised to leave the building, refrain from using matches, cell phones or electrical switches and are asked to call 1-800-GAS-LEAK.