The Middle Thorofare Bridge, also known as the Two Mile Bridge, which connects Wildwood Crest and Diamond Beach to Cape May, New Jersey, has been closed indefinitely due to a complete failure of its drive shaft motor. The motor, which is used to open the drawbridge, was declared inoperable and irreparable by engineers after testing. County officials have prioritized keeping the bridge in an upright position to allow boat traffic, which is essential for local industries, while they seek a replacement motor globally, a process that could take several weeks. The closure affects not only drivers but also pedestrians and cyclists, with detours directed to the George Redding Bridge in Wildwood. Businesses on both sides of the bridge will remain open during the closure. The bridge, built in 1939, was already identified as needing replacement, with long-term plans estimating the cost at more than $238 million.