Route 35 reconstruction to resume on Barnegat Bay Island Sept. 2

After a summer hiatus, crews will resume reconstructing Route 35 in Ocean County on Tuesday, Sept 2, according to a New Jersey Department of Transportation letter sent to impacted property owners.

The $265 million project broke ground along the 12.5-mile stretch of state highway between Bay Head and Island Beach State Park in September 2013. After working through most of the spring, crews ceased work on the coastal thoroughfare for the summer tourism season. 

“This project represents the first major roadway improvement to Route 35 in more than 50 years,” the letter said. “The project will include the reconstruction of travel lanes, roadway shoulders, enhanced cross-walks, Americans with Disabilities Act compliant ramps, utility work along the roadside and sidewalks. In some places, sidewalks will be constructed on the state’s right-of-way for the first time.”

In the letter, officials advise property owners that the state right-of-way generally extends 10 feet off the edge of the pavement to the face of the curb. 

“You are encouraged to check your property line as shown on your property deed in the county registrar’s office or as recorded on the tax maps in your municipality. Anything removed within this area by the state’s contractor will not be replaced or reimbursed,” the letter said. 

Property owners with questions are asked to contact the DOT at (732) 230-7356 or restore.nj35@dot.state.nj.us.