Reconstruction of the Baird Boulevard Bridge is slated to begin sometime in March or April. Structural engineers determined in October that the Baird Boulevard Bridge over the Cooper River in Camden is in need of replacement due to damage caused by flooding in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene.
The bridge, which is owned by the County, connects pedestrian and auto traffic from East Camden to the rest of Camden City. It also provides access to Camden High School from the rest of the city and thus its closing affects school bus routes and other routes for students, teachers and administrators to get back and forth to school. For these reasons, the bridge’s expeditious replacement is a top priority for City, County and State government. “The Freeholder Board and the city apologize for any inconvenience to residents during this process,” said Freeholder Ian K. Leonard, liaison to the County’s Public Works Department, who is involved with all aspects of this project. “There are significant permitting requirements for this bridge because it’s located in a tidal area of the Cooper River and must be reviewed by both the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the Army Corps of Engineers. The County is doing everything to expedite the work.” For pictures and updates on the project, visit www.camdencounty.com.
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