Black Bridge is OPENING!!!!

TOWN OF PHILLIPSBURG

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 16, 2026

Great News for Phillipsburg! Black Bridge on South Main Street Expected to reopen on or around October 23!

Just in Time for the Phillipsburg–Easton Halloween Parade!

PHILLIPSBURG, NJ – The Town of Phillipsburg is excited to announce that the Black Bridge (Orpah Bridge) on South Main Street is anticipated to reopen to vehicular traffic on or about Friday, October 23, 2026!

This long-awaited reopening is wonderful news for our residents, downtown businesses, and the entire Phillipsburg community. After months of detours, inconvenience, and disruptions, restoring this important roadway connection marks a significant milestone for our Town.

While the Black Bridge is expected to reopen to vehicular traffic, the sidewalks will remain temporarily closed to allow for the completion of necessary ADA compliance improvements. We appreciate the public’s continued patience as this important work is completed to ensure safe and accessible pedestrian access.

And the timing couldn’t be better! The anticipated reopening comes just in time for the beloved Phillipsburg–Easton Halloween Parade, helping ensure that this cherished tradition continues to bring our two communities together.

The Town extends its heartfelt appreciation to Senator Doug Steinhardt, Congressman Tom Kean Jr., and New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Priya Jain, along with her dedicated staff, for their attention, coordination, and commitment to moving this project forward.

We also sincerely thank Norfolk Southern and the construction workers and contractors who have worked diligently to help restore this vital connection.

A special thank you goes to local business owner Chris Cotty, as well as all our downtown business owners, for their unwavering patience, understanding, and resilience throughout this challenging period.

And most importantly, to our residents — THANK YOU!

We know this closure has been frustrating and has affected daily commutes, local businesses, and access throughout our community. Your extraordinary patience and continued support have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly grateful.

The reopening of the Black Bridge is more than the restoration of a roadway. It represents renewed connections, improved accessibility, and positive momentum for our downtown and the community we are proud to call home.

Phillipsburg is moving forward, and we couldn’t be more excited to share this news with you!

The anticipated reopening remains subject to final construction activities and safety requirements. The Town will share additional updates if the schedule or access arrangements change.

Town of Phillipsburg

Mayor Randy Piazza