Barnegat Lighthouse To Close Through October For Renovations

BARNEGAT LIGHT, NJ — Barnegat Lighthouse will close to visitors through October as the Department of Environmental Protection embarks on a $1.3 million restoration, DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced today.

This weekend is the last time to enjoy the lighthouse until fall. The lighthouse will close March 14. Construction work through October will involve a complete exterior restoration of the lighthouse, masonry recoating and repairs to the brick facade, interior lantern steel platform repairs, roof repairs and the installation of new windows. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park will remain open.

“For 165 years the Barnegat Lighthouse has stood as an important beacon to sailors, ships and Jersey shore visitors,” Commissioner LaTourette said in a release. “This critical restorative work will ensure that the historic lighthouse remains a bright and welcoming landmark for future generations.”

The lighthouse will remain dark for the duration of the project.

“While the lighthouse will be closed to visitors, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park will continue to be open for fishing, hiking, birding and picnicking,” said John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites. “The park office, interpretive center, fisherman’s walkway and trails also will remain open for guests to enjoy.”

The Friends of Barnegat Lighthouse are donating a new beacon light and new security fencing.

Constructed in 1856, the Barnegat Lighthouse is one of the signature destinations along the Jersey shore and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located on the northern tip of Long Beach Island in Ocean County, the location was regarded as one of the most crucial "change of course" points for coastal vessels. Ships bound to and from New York along the New Jersey coastline depended on Barnegat Lighthouse to avoid the shoals extending from the shoreline. The swift currents, shifting sandbars and the offshore shoals challenged the skills of even the most experienced sailor.

For local lighthouse lovers, there is no need to worry. Other State Park Service lighthouses include Twin Lights Historic Site in Highlands, Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City or the Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May Point.