The Route 71 Bridge that connects Belmar to Avon-by-the-Sea will officially reopen on Friday, according to officials.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation did not say exactly when on Friday the bridge would be reopened to traffic.

The 92-year-old bridge has been closed for months after experiencing mechanical failure, preventing it from opening and blocking boat traffic. The bridge has been left in the open position this whole time to enable the boats to get through since boats have the right-of-way over motor vehicles.

Many business owners in the area say that the bridge being stuck open and preventing traffic from crossing has impacted their profits.