Full Closure of Schooley’s Mountain Road Bridge Commences Today, July 10

Morris County kicks off Phase 2 of the rehabilitation project ahead of schedule, ensuring a safer and improved bridge for community use.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ - July 10, 2023 - Starting today, Morris County has fully closed the Schooley’s Mountain Road bridge in Washington Township, as Phase 2 of its rehabilitation project begins. The work on the historic structure, located in the German Valley Historic District, is expected to take 21 days to complete, with the aim to finish before schools reopen on August 23, 2023.

Phase 1 of the restoration was accomplished ahead of the originally slated 51 days. Phase 2, now commencing earlier than planned, involves removing and replacing all material above the stone arches, requiring the complete closure of the bridge. 

"The goal is to finish the entire project by the time school reopens on August 23, 2023. However, since Phase 2 is starting sooner, the county hopes to have the roadway re-opened prior to August 23, weather permitting," stated a county press release.

The bridge will remain closed at all times as construction is scheduled between 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday, and on most Saturdays from 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Overnight construction is not currently planned.

To ensure smooth traffic flow during the project, temporary traffic signals have been installed at Naughright Road and Flocktown Road, and Naughright Road and Fairview Avenue. Detour signs have also been put in place, redirecting traffic from Schooley’s Mountain Road to Flocktown Road, Naughright Road, and Bartley Road.

The project's contractor, CMS Construction Corporation of Plainfield, New Jersey, will be working diligently to complete the rehabilitation as quickly as possible.

Despite the expected difficulties for commuters during the closure, the county appreciates residents' understanding. 

"While the county understands this is a hardship to anyone commuting this section of Schooley’s Mountain Road, this historic arch bridge has served the community for nearly 150 years and residents can look forward to having a safer, better-looking bridge in a few short months," the release concluded.