|
NJDOT announces upcoming
traffic shifts on Route 36 Highlands Bridge
(Trenton)– New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Commissioner Kris Kolluri today announced upcoming traffic shifts on the Route 36 Highlands Bridge, which connects Sea Bright and Highlands Borough over the Shrewsbury River in Monmouth County. The traffic shifts are part of NJDOT’s $124.5 million Route 36 Highlands Bridge replacement project.
On July 7, NJDOT will close the inside lane of Route 36 in each direction. During the closure, NJDOT will install barrier curb and fencing along the median. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction.
Then, beginning on Monday, July 14, Route 36 southbound traffic will shift to the northbound side of the bridge in order to begin the demolition of the southbound approach spans of the existing bridge. One lane of traffic in each direction will be maintained on the northbound side of the bridge, and the northbound sidewalk will remain open to pedestrians. This traffic pattern will remain in place while the south half of the new structure is constructed. Upon completion of the new structure in summer 2009, traffic will shift to the new structure and the existing structure will be demolished.
The traffic patterns changes demonstrate progress in the state-funded replacement of the Route 36 Highlands Bridge. The existing bridge, which was built in 1932, has reached the end of its useful life. The existing Route 36 Highlands Bridge has been rated the worst movable bridge in New Jersey. This bridge is part of the emergency evacuation route for Sea Bright Borough and the Gateway National Recreational Area. The new bridge was designed to serve motorists for 100 years.
NJDOT has staged the project in a manner that will enable motorists to cross the Shrewsbury River throughout construction. Route 36 will remain open to traffic for the duration of the project. No detours are scheduled for mainline Route 36. NJDOT is scheduled to complete construction in December 2010.
Variable message signs will inform motorists of changes in traffic operations during construction. Equipment has been installed to measure traffic speed and advise the public during construction. State and local police will be utilized for work-zone safety during construction operations, as well. Construction information and real-time traffic updates are available at www.511nj.org and www.njcommuter.com.
| 
