Across the bridge, there is total darkness but it's in the light where you could see a community demolished by Sandy.
"This is going to be a couple of years clean up now and hopefully they can rebuild," said Kathy Kemble.
Video showed the Seaside Heights boardwalk gone, part of the amusement pier underwater and houses severely damaged.
Many in the area haven't seen the devastation because of widespread power outages.
Typically, there are three ways to get on the Barrier Island. Travelers can go by boat, which is not allowed now, through Mantoloking on Route 35, which has been destroyed or also through Route 37, which survived Sandy.
It has become the lifeline for clean up and rescue efforts. 300 people have been pulled from the area including Roberta Fourness and her pets.
"There's damage to my home. It's a mess. I'm going to have to do a major rehab and I made it through this but I won't stay for the next one," said Fourness.
On Route 37, residents and business owners were awaiting word on when they'll be able to return.
"It's eerie, it's very eerie and it's frightening. You have no control over it," said Delores Lobbato.
The only entry point into Seaside Heights was hit by a floating house during the storm but the roadway wasn't damaged.
Officials say crews are working hard to restore power, stop gas leaks and remove debris off roads so people will be able to access the Barrier Island by the weekend.
