Rockfall mitigation work begins along Interstate 78
in Berkeley Heights
(Trenton) - NJDOT officials today announced the start a project to remove loose rock and stabilize rocky outcrops along Interstate 78 westbound in Berkeley Heights, Union County.
NJDOT has closed an approximately 800-foot stretch of the right shoulder of I-78 westbound, between mileposts 44.2 and 45.2, to establish a construction zone adjacent to the highway. NJDOT’s contractor, Merco Inc., will install precast concrete construction barrier on both sides of the highway and remove existing guide rail to provide workers the space to maneuver.
This portion of I-78 westbound carries three travel lanes, and all lanes will be maintained during peak periods on weekdays and between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. Temporary single and double lane closures will be allowed on I-78 westbound during off-peak hours, but one travel lane will be maintained at all times.
The contractor will apply shotcrete material to problem areas and construct new guide rail along the base of the rock embankments. Rock catch fences will also be installed along portions of the highway.
NJDOT evaluates all rock cuts along state highways and identifies locations with potential rockfall issues. NJDOT anticipates completing the project in fall 2012.
Variable Message Signs will be used to inform motorists of traffic pattern changes during construction. NJDOT provides emergency roadway information, construction schedule updates and real time traffic information and images at www.511nj.org
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