NJDOT to reconstruct Broad Avenue bridge over
Route 46 in Palisades Park

On Friday night, August 3, NJDOT’s contractor, Berto Construction, is scheduled to set up the initial construction zone on the southbound side of the bridge. To accommodate that work, NJDOT will close the southbound travel-lane and sidewalk and shift two-way traffic onto the northbound side of the bridge. NJDOT will replace the bridge in stages so that at least one travel lane on Broad Avenue will remain open to traffic in both directions at all times.

The initial construction stages will include the installation of protective shielding, site mobilization and utility relocation. The majority of work will be done overnight.

• Throughout construction large trucks will be restricted from making left-turns onto Broad Avenue from the Route 46 ramps in either direction.
• Temporary traffic signals will be utilized to manage traffic from all approaches at the intersection and bridge.

Route 46 underneath the bridge will experience periodic traffic impacts during construction in each direction. Dynamic message signs are being utilized to notify motorists of all traffic pattern changes.

The approximately $3.6 million federally-funded project will replace the existing, structurally deficient bridge superstructure while slightly raising the vertical under clearance of the bridge. The new bridge will feature new sidewalks and ADA-compliant curb ramps. The Broad Avenue approach roadways will be repaved on either side of the bridge. The project will also entail extensive utility relocation work in the area.

The existing structure was built in 1929 and has deteriorated over time requiring replacement. Approximately 34,000 vehicles use this bridge every day where heavily-traveled Route 1&9 turns into Broad Avenue in Palisades Park. Motorists continuing on Route 1&9 north ( E. Columbia Avenue) veer off to the east just before the Broad Avenue bridge.

NJDOT held a Public Information Center in Palisades Park in early-June to provide residents and businesses with information in advance of the start of construction. The project is anticipated to be completed in early-2014.

The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website for real-time travel information.