The Route 71 bridge over the Shark River (front), between Belmar (left) and Avon-By-The- Sea, is shown Friday, March 8, 2024.© Thomas P. Costello ...

Emergency repairs on the Route 71 drawbridge that connects Belmar to Avon-by-the-Sea have forced the shutdown of the busy thoroughfare, and officials can’t give an estimate as to when it will ...