NJDOT to reconfigure Route 40 intersections with Cologne Avenue and Babcock Road
in Mays Landing
(Trenton) - The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) today announced the start of construction on a project to improve safety and reduce congestion along Route 40 (Harding Highway) between Cologne Avenue and Babcock Road in Hamilton Township, Atlantic County.
“The addition of left-turn movements will reduce congestion experienced by Route 40 motorists,” said Commissioner James Simpson. “This is a cost-effective solution that will improve safety and mobility for Atlantic County residents and summer tourists headed to the shore.”
On Friday, July 8, NJDOT’s contractor, South State Inc., is scheduled to restrict the left-turn movement from Cologne Avenue to Route 40 eastbound as construction begins on a new median island and traffic signal upgrades at the intersection.
• Cologne Avenue motorists will be rerouted to Route 322 eastbound to Route 40.
The $837,000 project will widen each intersection for the addition of a new dedicated left-turn lane from Route 40 westbound to Babcock Road and a new dedicated left-turn lane from Route 40 eastbound to Cologne Avenue. The traffic signal at the Route 40 intersection with Cologne Avenue will be upgraded to feature a left-turn phase.
Route 40 carries one travel lane in each direction through this location and both lanes will be maintained during daytime and peak travel periods, though traffic shifts may be necessary. Overnight single-lane closures, with alternating traffic patterns, will be necessary periodically for construction operations. No lane closures will be allowed on weekends or holidays during the summer season. The project is anticipated for completion in October 2011.
The William Davies Middle School is located just west of Babcock Road along Route 40 and many school buses utilize these two intersections.
Variable message signs have been installed to inform motorists regarding any changes in traffic patterns. Motorists are also encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information.
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