The New Jersey Department of Transportation has recently approved an extension of the Route 1 congestion relief project, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion on a busy stretch of highway in North and South Brunswick. This extension allows for the use of the shoulder of the highway as a travel lane during peak travel times, providing motorists with an additional lane to help keep traffic flowing smoothly.
Starting on August 22, between the hours of 6-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m., drivers will be able to utilize the shoulder as a travel lane for a 4 ½-mile stretch of Route 1 northbound and southbound from Route 522/Promenade Boulevard/Stouts Lane in South Brunswick to Thomas Avenue in North Brunswick. This temporary project, known as Hard Shoulder Running (HSR), will allow the shoulder to be used as a travel lane for nearly seven miles from Thomas Avenue to Independence Way.
The decision to implement this project comes as a response to the congestion issues faced on Route 1, which is currently only two lanes in this section of the highway. By utilizing the shoulder as a travel lane during peak periods, the goal is to keep traffic flowing, reduce congestion, and ultimately improve safety for all motorists on the road.
The Department of Transportation had previously implemented a similar project on a 2.3-mile stretch of Route 1 in both directions from Independence Way to Route 522 in 2017, which proved to be successful in providing congestion relief during rush hour. The existing HSR section includes various communication features such as static regulatory and guide signs, as well as electronic lane use control signals to indicate whether the shoulder is open or closed as a travel lane.
As this is a pilot project, the DOT will closely monitor and analyze data to determine the effectiveness of the HSR in providing congestion relief without compromising safety on Route 1. The project is part of a $6.6 million state-funded initiative to improve traffic flow and safety on this busy highway.
The project initially began in June with the widening, milling, and paving of the right shoulder within the project limits to prepare it for use as a travel lane during designated times. Additionally, repairs were made to curb and drainage inlets to enhance safety and alleviate congestion on Route 1 in Middlesex County.
In conclusion, the extension of the Route 1 congestion relief project through the use of the shoulder as a travel lane during peak travel times is a proactive measure taken by the New Jersey Department of Transportation to address traffic congestion and improve safety on this busy stretch of highway. By analyzing data and closely monitoring the project, the DOT aims to provide a more efficient and safe commuting experience for all motorists traveling on Route 1.
