Route 9 traffic shift required as Bridge over Waretown Creek replacement project in Ocean Township advances

(TRENTON) - New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials today announced a traffic shift as the Route 9 Bridge over Waretown Creek construction project advances.

Beginning at 8 p.m., Friday, March 9, NJDOT’s contractor Earle Asphalt, will install a concrete barrier along the east side of the roadway and northbound and southbound traffic will be shifted towards the west side of the bridge utilizing the southbound shoulder. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction. This configuration will be in place for approximately six months.

The bridge replacement will be constructed one side at a time and in multiple stages to minimize traffic disruption. The current construction stage will include the creation of a utility access road to allow for the temporary relocation of northbound and then southbound aerial utilities. A cofferdam also will be built allowing for the excavation and relocation of gas pipes.

The $3.1 million federally funded project will replace the structurally deficient bridge located between Bryant Road and Birdsall Street in Ocean Township. The bridge is approximately 75-feet long, including the approaches, and was constructed in 1925. Route 9 in this section is one lane in each direction and carries an average of 19,175 vehicles daily.

The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. As work progresses, NJDOT will issue additional traffic advisories.

Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT's traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information and for NJDOT news follow us on Twitter @NJDOTinfo.