The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) announced that the right lane on the I-78 westbound Exit 29 ramp to I-287 will be closed for approximately one week starting Monday, December 1. The closure is part of ongoing bridge replacement work in Bedminster and Bridgewater, Somerset County.
During this period, which runs until Sunday, December 7 at 5 p.m., one lane will remain open on the ramp, allowing continued access to both northbound and southbound I-287. According to NJDOT, “The closure is necessary to pour the concrete deck and allow for curing time on the bridge over Routes 202/206.” Motorists are advised to drive carefully through the work zone.
Despite the lane closure, two through lanes on I-78 westbound will remain available via a temporary road and bridge over Routes 202/206. Oversized trucks are still subject to detours that have been in place since May. Vehicles wider than 8.5 feet or heavier than 40 tons must follow a designated route using Route 24 westbound and I-287 southbound before returning to I-78 westbound. This detour will stay in effect until early 2026.
The current traffic setup includes shifted lanes onto a temporary bridge in the median over Washington Valley Road, with a single right lane maintained as a cattle chute to facilitate demolition and reconstruction of the existing structure.
This federally funded project has a budget of $67 million and aims to replace both eastbound and westbound bridge decks carrying I-78 over Routes 202/206 and Washington Valley Road due to their deteriorating condition. The plan also includes updating guiderails, constructing new approach slabs at all four bridges, and resurfacing affected roadway sections. All construction is expected to finish by late spring 2026.
Motorists can monitor traffic changes related to this project through Variable Message Signs along the route. Updates may occur based on weather or other factors. Travelers are encouraged to visit www.511nj.org for real-time information or follow NJDOT’s social media accounts for further news.
“Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Watch NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor’s message about making roadway safety a way of life,” said NJDOT officials.
