NJDOT announces start of I-287 rehabilitation in Middlesex County

Project will necessitate traffic pattern changes

NJDOT is scheduled to begin the rehabilitation of the seriously deteriorated I-287 during the week of July 30, 2007 and complete construction in November 2008. NJDOT also will replace four bridge decks on I-287. The project will extend the lifespan of the roadway by over 15 years and the new bridge decks by 50 years.

“NJDOT’s Route 287 rehabilitation project will provide motorists significant safety and operational improvements,” said Commissioner Kolluri. “This $40 million effort in Middlesex County reflects NJDOT’s statewide investment in providing safer, smoother and longer lasting driving surfaces.”

The project will be constructed in multiple stages to minimize impacts to local businesses and residents. The majority of construction will be done during nighttime hours.

Beginning in August, construction on the I-287 northbound bridge over Durham Avenue will require the following traffic pattern changes:

• In late August, NJDOT will close the left lane and shift the three lanes of I-287 southbound traffic to the right, using the shoulder as a travel lane.

• The three lanes of northbound traffic will move as follows: The left lane will crossover to the southbound side, utilize the southbound structure and cross back to the northbound lanes after the bridge. The right and center lanes will utilize the inner lanes of the northbound structure while the outer lanes are under construction.

• Once the outer half of the new structure has been completed, the right and center northbound lanes will be shifted back to the new lanes and work will begin on the inner half of the structure. The left lane will continue to crossover to the southbound side. When all work on the bridge is complete, all traffic lanes on I-287 will return to the normal configuration.

The rehabilitation of the I-287 northbound bridge over Durham Avenue is scheduled for completion by the end of 2007.

Beginning in Spring 2008 the roadway rehabilitation will continue with the deck replacements of the I-287 southbound structure over Durham Avenue and the northbound and southbound structures over Route 1 in Edison. Traffic pattern changes will be required during these periods, and will follow the pattern used Durham Avenue structure. All remaining pavement repairs and resurfacing on I-287 will continue simultaneously.

NJDOT has installed a real-time work zone travel system along the project route. This system monitors traffic in the work zone and relays travel time data to Variable Message Signs (VMS) that alert motorists of the projected time to travel from their current location through the construction zone. Variable Message Signs installed along Route 287 and NJ Turnpike will alert motorists of upcoming construction activities and traffic pattern changes throughout the project duration.

NJDOT is working with the State Police to maintain safe conditions for workers and motorists in the construction zone. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website, https://nj-dot.nj.gov/transportation/commuter/, for project updates.