Morris County, in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), is conducting a Local Concept Development (LCD) Study for the Lenape Island Bridge in Denville Township. This initiative aims to evaluate options for replacing or rehabilitating the bridge, which has served as the sole access point to Lenape Island since its construction in 1966. Lenape Island is home to approximately 30 residences, underscoring the bridge’s vital role in the community. morristownminute.town.news+2WRNJ Radio+2Morris County+2Morris County+2morristownminute.town.news+2WRNJ Radio+2
Public Engagement Opportunities
To ensure that the study reflects the community’s interests and needs, the public is encouraged to participate through various channels:WRNJ Radio+1Morris County+1
- Public Input Survey: A survey has been developed to gather insights from residents and stakeholders regarding the bridge’s current condition and potential improvements. This survey is a crucial component of the study and helps inform the development of the Purpose and Need Statement. WRNJ Radio+4WRNJ Radio+4morristownminute.town.news+4
- Written Comments: Community members can submit written feedback through multiple methods:
- Mail: Meghan Paccione, Principal Engineer–Bridges/County Project ManagerMorris County+1WRNJ Radio+1 County of Morris Department of Public Works Division of Engineering & Transportation P.O. Box 900 Morristown, NJ 07963-0900
- Email: LenapeIslandBridge@gmail.com
- Online: Visit LenapeIslandBridge.com to access the survey and submit comments.
- Fax: 973-539-3141Morris County+2WRNJ Radio+2New Jersey Official Site+2
All comments are being accepted through Friday, May 30, 2025.
Ensuring Accessibility
The upcoming online Public Information Center meeting is designed to accommodate individuals with visual or hearing impairments. Those requiring assistance are encouraged to contact Meghan Paccione at LenapeIslandBridge@gmail.com or by phone at 973-285-6750 no later than Monday, April 21, 2025.
Background on the Lenape Island Bridge
The Lenape Island Bridge is a critical infrastructure component that provides the only access to and from Lenape Island on Indian Lake in Denville Township. Recognizing its importance, Morris County has initiated this study to explore feasible options for its replacement or rehabilitation, aiming to enhance safety and accessibility for residents and visitors alike. morristownminute.town.news+2WRNJ Radio+2Morris County+2
Project Timeline
The LCD Study is the first phase in a federally mandated, multi-phase project development process overseen by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This phase includes evaluating existing conditions, developing a Purpose and Need Statement, conducting an Alternatives Analysis, and recommending a Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA) for bridge improvements. The study is anticipated to be completed by June 30, 2025, after which the project may proceed to subsequent phases, including Preliminary Engineering, Final Design, and Construction. WRNJ Radio+1Morris County+1morristownminute.town.news+2Morris County+2WRNJ Radio+2
Staying Informed
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about the study’s progress and participate in upcoming public meetings. For the latest updates and additional information, please visit the project website at LenapeIslandBridge.com.
By actively engaging in this study, the community has the opportunity to shape the future of the Lenape Island Bridge, ensuring it meets the needs of all who rely on it.
