Ponquogue Bridge Closed Indefinitely Due to Deteriorating Concrete

The Ponquogue Bridge, a vital link connecting Hampton Bays to the popular Ponquogue Beach in New York, remains closed to all traffic after inspectors discovered deteriorating concrete, Fox News reports.

The closure, which began on February 21, has raised concerns among local businesses and residents as the busy summer season approaches.

The Town of Southampton issued an emergency alert on the 21st, announcing the bridge closure following a “routine inspection” by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) the previous day. Further examination by NYSDOT inspectors on Monday aimed to “obtain additional data to be analyzed by the engineers,” according to a Town of Southampton Facebook post.

The town is currently “awaiting more information from the County as to [the] path forward and any reopening plans,” leaving residents and business owners in a state of uncertainty. Officials are encouraging the public to sign up for alerts through the town’s Notify Me messaging system for updates on the bridge’s status.

The closure significantly impacts access to Ponquogue Beach, a major tourist destination drawing over 106,000 visitors each summer, according to the town’s website. The beach boasts a recently renovated pavilion, completed in May 2019 after a $3.35 million renovation project that began in November 2018.

The only alternate route to the beach is located west of the Ponquogue Bridge in Quogue, potentially causing significant delays and inconvenience.

Local businesses and fishermen are particularly concerned about the potential economic impact of a prolonged closure. They fear a loss of revenue during the peak season, as the bridge provides direct access for customers and anglers. The extended detour could deter visitors and negatively affect their livelihood.