NJDOT announces traffic pattern changes on I-78 eastbound in Newark

(Trenton) - The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) today announced upcoming traffic pattern changes as part of an on-going concrete roadway rehabilitation project on a two-mile section of I-78 in Newark, Essex County.

Beginning Tuesday night, September 7, NJDOT will reconfigure I-78 eastbound Local to allow for a new construction zone in the center lane of the roadway between milepost 56.2 and 58.4. Two travel lanes will be maintained, split around either side of the new work zone. The recently reconstructed left-most lane on I-78 eastbound will provide access to the NJ Turnpike and Route 1&9 northbound (Exit 58B) and the recently reconstructed right-most lane will provide access to Route 1&9 southbound (Exit 58A).

This traffic pattern is expected to be in place for approximately two weeks.

Eastbound I-78 motorists are being provided with up-to-the-minute travel information via Variable Message Signs that indicate whether local or express lanes offer the quickest trip to the Turnpike. The signs have been positioned prior to major decision points along I-78 eastbound at Berkeley Heights, near the Garden State Parkway and along Route 24 in Millburn.

The $12.7 million project began in August 2009 and is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. NJDOT anticipates project completion by the end of the year.

Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution and follow any reduced speed signs in the construction zone. Real-time traffic information and construction activity updates are available online at www.511nj.org or by calling 511.