The New Jersey Department of Transportation announced on March 17 that the reopening of the I-280 westbound on-ramp from Clifton Avenue and 8th Avenue in Newark has been postponed because of inclement weather. The ramp was originally scheduled to reopen by 2 p.m., but necessary restriping and traffic signal work at the intersections could not be completed.
This postponement comes as a bridge deck replacement project nears completion in Essex County. The $31.7 million federally funded project replaced the I-280 westbound bridge decks on a 10-span viaduct over NJ TRANSIT tracks, Orange Street, and 1st Street. Additional work included substructure repairs, bearing replacements, structural steel repairs, repainting portions of the bridge, and replacing an existing retaining wall to allow for three through lanes beyond the bridge. Two new overhead sign structures were also installed.
The project was designed to advance in stages to minimize impact on motorists. Variable messaging signs are being used to provide advance notification of all traffic pattern changes related to the construction.
The timing of remaining work is subject to change depending on weather or other factors. Final paving on I-280 westbound is expected later this spring.
Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website at www.511nj.org for updates and real-time travel information.
