NJDOT to open extended I-78 acceleration lane in Bedminster, Somerset County

(Trenton)- Commissioner Kris Kolluri today announced that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) on Thursday, April 3 will open the newly extended I-78 westbound acceleration lane from I-287 southbound in Bedminster Township, Somerset County.

“This project will benefit motorists who use I-78 and I-287 by increasing traffic flow and easing congestion at the confluence of two of the busiest highways in New Jersey,” Commissioner Kolluri said.

NJDOT will re-stripe I-78 using temporary lane closures starting at 9 p.m. on Wednesday night, April 2 and open the new acceleration lane on Thursday, April 3. All travel lanes within the construction zone will be returned to their previous 12-foot width, and the shoulders will be re-opened.

The project has lengthened the existing acceleration lane by 3,600 feet, providing a safer and smoother merge onto I-78 near the Bunn Road overpass. The previous acceleration lane was located on a curved section of roadway and required motorists to merge directly onto I-78 travel lanes, causing backups at this ramp and on I-287.

NJDOT also has improved safety and drainage on I-78 by installing two new overhead signs, a storm water retention basin and retaining walls. In addition, NJDOT extended the existing culvert in the vicinity of Burnt Mills Road.

The $4.6 million project is jointly funded by NJDOT and the A.T.& T. Corporation, which provided $2.4 million in construction funding.