In December 2007, Ocean County purchased the Cedar Bridge Tavern and its 5 acres of land for $120,000 with the stipulation that Rudy Koening, the former owner, could remain there until his death. Those who didn’t see the tavern in 2007 would find it hard to believe the enormity of the project the county had begun. A committee was formed by the county freeholders to oversee the project; a look at the minutes of an October 2008 meeting can give some insight.

“The trees lined near the tavern will be removed as they present a fire hazard.