JACKSON — Work will begin this fall on construction of a new dam and bridge along Bennetts Mills Road.
The dam and bridge near Lake Enno will be replaced and a curve in the road will be realigned at a cost of about $6 million.
“This project includes one of only five class two dams in the county,” said Freeholder John P. Kelly, liaison to the Ocean County Department of Engi-neering. “The state recognizes a class two dam as a structure that, if it fails, could imperil nearby homes, roads and businesses downstream.”
While the existing dam remains structurally sound, the new dam and realigned road will reassure residents both living near, and who travel past Lake Enno, that the bridge, dam and road are safe and up-to-date, according to a press release.
“The realigned road and new bridge will lessen the curve, making the road safer than ever before,” Kelly said.
The redesign also includes a fishing area near the existing bridge spillway, he said.
Work is expected to begin by the fall and be completed in about a year, said Ocean County Engineer Ronald A. Lotrecchio.
There will be some detours once the work begins, but Lotrecchio said he expects the road to remain passable through much of the construction.
This is the second phase of improvements along Bennetts Mills Road.
Work has already begun on the first phase, which includes the relocation of utilities in advance of this road, dam and bridge construction phase.
Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari said the county is doing its share to improve roads in what is one of New Jersey’s fastest growing communities.
“As Jackson continues to grow, the Board of Freeholders is working hard to make sure our county roads remain safe and modern,” Vicari said.