
New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to Undergo Two-Week Closure for Structural Repairs
Jan 12
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The New Hope-Lambertville Toll-Supported Bridge, a critical connection between New Hope, Pennsylvania, and Lambertville, New Jersey, will close for approximately two weeks starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025. This closure is part of ongoing rehabilitation work, announced by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission (DRJTBC).
Structural Repairs Necessary for Safety
The closure is necessary to address a deteriorated structural connection discovered during sandblasting operations earlier in the project. Testing revealed significant wear on a steel pin in the bridge's second truss span, prompting the DRJTBC to implement immediate safety measures. A temporary "friction collar" was installed on January 6, 2025, to stabilize the structure until full repairs can commence. For more details on the repair process, visit the DRJTBC’s January 6 update.
Alternative Routes and Services
During the closure, travelers are encouraged to use alternative crossings:
New Hope-Lambertville (Route 202) Toll Bridge: One mile north, with toll-free access for New Jersey-bound traffic. Pennsylvania-bound drivers will pay $1.50 with E-ZPass or $3 via TOLL BY PLATE.
Centre Bridge-Stockton Bridge: Located 3.3 miles north, this bridge offers a free crossing.
Washington Crossing Bridge: About 6.9 miles south, providing another toll-free option.
Pedestrians can take advantage of a free shuttle service running between New Hope and Lambertville. Operating daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., with extended hours on weekends, the shuttle aims to maintain connectivity for residents and visitors.
New Hope: Impact on the Community
Local businesses anticipate challenges during the shutdown. Ami Cross, owner of Sojourner in New Hope, cited a 15% decline in business over the past year due to ongoing construction. Lisa Stephens, owner of Lambertville Trading Company, expressed cautious optimism that the January closure’s impact will be manageable. Learn more about the local sentiment from the New Hope Free Press.
Project Background and Timeline
This $8.8 million rehabilitation project, initiated in January 2024, includes replacing the pedestrian walkway, repainting the steel-truss superstructure, and installing energy-efficient LED lighting. Originally slated for completion in late 2024, the discovery of structural issues has delayed the project. The DRJTBC now anticipates the bridge will fully reopen by mid-February 2025. Updates on the project's progress can be found on the DRJTBC website.
Executive Director Joe Resta emphasized, “We understand the importance this bridge has to New Hope and Lambertville, and we are committed to resolving this issue as quickly and safely as possible.”
Stay informed by following updates from New Hope Borough and NJ101.5.