Major Lane Closures on I-78 Eastbound This Weekend in Somerset County

I-78 Eastbound to Undergo Bridge Deck Repairs; I-287 Northbound Ramp Closure and Detours Expected.

Bedminster/Bridgewater, Somerset County: Motorists traveling on I-78 eastbound should brace for significant traffic disruptions this weekend. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has announced lane closures on I-78 eastbound, impacting areas over Routes 202/206 and Washington Valley Road, as part of an ongoing bridge deck replacement project.

Starting 9 a.m., Friday, December 15, until 6 p.m., Saturday, December 16, two right lanes on I-78 eastbound will be closed post the I-78/I-287 interchange split, maintaining two through lanes up to the entrance ramp from I-287 southbound. The I-287 southbound ramp to I-78 eastbound will stay open but with a temporary stop sign at the ramp's end.

In the construction zone, traffic will be directed to the left towards a temporary bridge in the median, as the right two lanes will be under closure. This setup is crucial for facilitating bridge deck repairs.

Additionally, the I-287 northbound Exit 21A ramp to I-78 eastbound will be closed, with a detour via Exit 26B/CR 525 north/Mt Airy Road north/Bernardsville, leading back to I-78 eastbound via I-287 southbound.

Saturday is expected to witness heavy traffic and delays on I-78 eastbound, and travelers are advised to consider alternative routes. By Saturday evening, all lanes are slated to reopen, with the two left lanes over the temporary bridge allocated for cars and the right two lanes designated for trucks. The stop sign at the I-287 southbound ramp will also be removed, reverting to a yield sign.

This part of the $27.9 million federally-funded project aims to replace the deteriorating bridge decks on both eastbound and westbound sides of I-78 over Routes 202/206 and Washington Valley Road. The project also includes updating the existing guiderail to current standards and resurfacing the roadway within the project limits. The entire project is expected to conclude by fall 2025.

Motorists are advised to stay alert to Variable Message Signs for updates on traffic patterns. The schedule may change depending on weather conditions or other unforeseen factors.