Squirrelwood Road Bridge in Woodland Park, Passaic County, is entering a new phase of its replacement project. On Tuesday morning, southbound traffic on Squirrelwood Road will be shifted onto the newly constructed northbound side of the bridge over I-80. This shift marks the completion of work on the northbound side and allows for demolition and reconstruction of the southbound portion.
The I-80 eastbound and westbound exits to Squirrelwood Road will remain closed as this next stage begins. According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), “Beginning at 7 a.m. Tuesday, December 2, Squirrelwood Road southbound traffic will be shifted onto the newly constructed northbound side of the bridge to begin the next stage of the bridge replacement project. Squirrelwood Road northbound will remain closed at Jackson Avenue/ramp to I-80 eastbound.”
During construction, pedestrian access across the bridge will continue. The current stage is expected to last through summer 2026.
Several detours are in place for motorists due to ramp closures:
– Drivers on I-80 eastbound who want Exit 56B to Squirrelwood Road northbound must continue on I-80 east, take Exit 57B toward Paterson/Downtown, then follow ramps back west before exiting again at Squirrelwood Road.
– Those traveling from Squirrelwood Road northbound wishing to access I-80 westbound are directed onto I-80 east first, then follow signs through Paterson/Downtown and return west.
The $12.2 million project involves replacing both sides of the bridge in stages and installing a new traffic signal at the intersection with the I-80 westbound off-ramp. Additional improvements include repaving, guiderail replacement, and upgrades to curbs and sidewalks. Completion is scheduled for spring 2026.
Motorists are advised to check NJDOT’s website www.511nj.org for updates on construction schedules and real-time travel information.
“Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Watch NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor’s message about making roadway safety a way of life,” stated NJDOT.
