Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton has issued a statement saying not only was he not made aware the Townsend’s Inlet Bridge would open a day early, he also didn’t know fellow Freeholder Will Morey was in one of five go carts crossing the bridge to celebrate its opening. Thornton issued a statement to the media saying he became aware videos were posted to social media which resulted in many negative comments. He said a two month delay in opening an important link between Sea Isle City and Avalon was not to be celebrated.