Portion of unused rail bridge collapses in N.J., raising concerns
Written by RT&S Staff
A section of the bridge that was blocking the channel is pulled away.
A railroad bridge that has been inactive for years is starting to be an active problem for Cape May, N.J., officials.
A section of the bridge collapsed and was blocking the channel of Cape May Canal. The piece, which served as a fender to prevent boats from damaging bridge supports, has been removed, but the problem remains.
Cape May officials recently expressed concern about the bridge. It is believed that a passing boat hit the section where the fender is located and nine pilings collapsed. The pilings were severely eroded, according to reports. NJ Transit said the bridge would need extensive repairs or would have to be replaced for service to return on the structure.
NJ Transit owns the tracks, and Cape May Seashore Lines leases the line. Cape May Seashore Lines has contracted with Revolution Rail to use the tracks for a rail bike operation. Cape May Seashore Lines is responsible for bridge maintenance.
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