NJDOT announces traffic shift on I-287 southbound bridge over Durham Avenue

(Trenton)- The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) today announced upcoming traffic pattern changes on the I-287 southbound bridge over Durham Avenue in South Plainfield. The bridge reconstruction is part of the $40 million reconstruction of Interstate 287 from the New Jersey Turnpike to Stelton Road (Exit 5) in Edison, Metuchen and South Plainfield, Middlesex County.

On Saturday, April 5, the southbound left lane of I-287 will be reconfigured. NJDOT will create a contra-flow lane which will travel across the median and over the left lane of the reconstructed northbound bridge over Durham Avenue. After crossing the bridge, this lane will shift back across the median to rejoin mainline Route 287 southbound. The right and center lanes will utilize the outer lanes of the southbound structure while the inner lanes are under construction.

When NJDOT completes the inner half of the new structure, the right and center southbound lanes will be shifted to the new lanes and work will begin on the outer half of the structure. The left lane will continue to cross over to the northbound side. When all work on the bridge is complete, all traffic lanes on I-287 will return to the normal configuration.

NJDOT completed the reconstruction of the I-287 northbound bridge over Durham Avenue in November, 2007.

NJDOT began the rehabilitation of the deteriorated I-287 on July 30, 2007 and will complete construction in November 2008. The project will extend the lifespan of the roadway by over 15 years and the new bridge decks by 50 years.

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). The VMS then alert motorists of the projected time to travel through the construction zone. Variable Message Signs installed along Route 287 and N.J. Turnpike alert motorists of upcoming construction activities and traffic pattern changes.

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, www.njcommuter.com, for project updates.