Bayonne Bridge Needs To Grow Up

As the face of commerce begins to transform, the Bayonne Bridge will need help catching up, reports NJ.com. The bridge, which at the time of its opening in 1931 was considered the largest steel arch span in the world, may be too short to let future cargo ships pass in and out of Newark Bay. A study completed in 2010 by the Port Authorities of New York and New Jersey confirmed that, should immediate action not be taken, the area could lose both jobs and business.

Back in 2006, a $5.25 billion dollar plan was approved by the people of Panama to revitalize the Panama Canal. By 2014, the canal will be double the size it is now, allowing for larger trade ships to pass through with less congestion and time in transit. Cargo ships will also become commonplace due to the change.

The bridge, which connects Staten Island to New Jersey, and crosses the Kil Van Kull, is the sole waterway entrance into Newark Bay. Nearly 270,000 exist around the shipping industry alone. It's height ranges between 115 to 151 feet depending on the tide. The yearly 5,000 ships that pass through just barely pass underneath the bridge. With a future trend in larger commercial ships, Newark Bay could be cut off entirely as these ships begin to take their business elsewhere, leading to a loss of billions in cargo and around 31,000 jobs.

"Our port is one of the most active in the country and is critical to the future of good quality jobs in my district," said Michael E. McMahon, a representative for the House Transportation and Infastructure committee, during a press release. "If we do not immediately start addressing the Bayonne Bridge height limitation, our local economy will undoubtedly suffer.”

Raising the bridge will cost $1.3 billion dollars, and is estimated to not be completed until at least 2019. Some groups, such as U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, suggested a tunnel, but that would not be completed until 2022.

Should the many ports along Newark Bay lose business with these commercial ships, they will still end up in New Jersey via train to Pennsylvania, followed by truck.

In recent speeches, Governor Christie gave his support to fixing the Bayonne Bridge, saying it was vital for the state's economy. The Port Authority, in many statements, has committed itself to finding a solution, but has yet to announce any official plans.

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