NJDOT concludes record year of capital improvements

The $3.3 billion 2008 Transportation Capital Program - the largest in history - made great progress toward improving safety and congestion on New Jersey's transportation network. As part of the fiscal year 2008 Capital Program, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) awarded 117 construction projects totaling $740 million.

One of 2008's premier construction projects is the replacement of the Route 36 Highlands Bridge, which connects Sea Bright and Highlands over the Shrewsbury River in Monmouth County. The existing Route 36 Highlands Bridge has been rated the worst movable bridge in New Jersey. The $124 million bridge replacement project is scheduled for completion in December 2010.

The Route 36 project will replace the 75-year-old, double-leaf bascule bridge over the Shrewsbury River.

NJDOT also advanced several projects along the Liberty Corridor in Fiscal Year 2008, including the Wittpenn Bridge replacement on Route 7 between Jersey City and Kearny, the realignment of Routes 36 and 35 in Eatontown and the connection of Route 18 with Route 287 in Piscataway.

NJDOT awarded $78.75 million in county aid to fund street improvements, rehabilitation and safety projects in all 21 New Jersey counties. The funds provided infrastructure improvements and property tax relief, created jobs, and improved quality of life for New Jersey residents.

The Fiscal Year 2008 Capital Program also made significant strides toward improving pedestrian safety statewide. For example, NJDOT replaced a pedestrian overpass near the Cherry Hill Mall in Camden County and built a new Route 35 pedestrian crossing in Monmouth County.

Improving all modes of transportation is essential to New Jersey's quality of live and commerce. NJDOT's Fiscal Year 2008 Capital Program boasted robust funding as well as the advancement of 117 significant transportation projects. NJDOT will continue its efforts to provide motorists with a safe and convenient transportation network.