Overnight Route 18 Southbound Closure in East Brunswick for Water Main Installation

Detour Plans in Place as Essential Infrastructure Work Begins Tonight

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has announced a critical overnight closure of Route 18 southbound, affecting the area from Racetrack Road to Rues Lane in East Brunswick, Middlesex County. 

This temporary closure, scheduled for tonight, Monday, March 18, from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, is pivotal for the installation of a new water main, part of a comprehensive pavement project in the region.

To facilitate traffic flow and minimize inconvenience, NJDOT has established a detour route for southbound motorists: Traffic will be redirected to exit at Racetrack Road, follow Summerhill Road/CR 613 southbound, and then turn left onto Rues Lane/CR 617 eastbound to rejoin Route 18 southbound.

This installation is a segment of the broader $86.1 million Route 18, East Brunswick, Drainage and Pavement Rehabilitation project. Financed through federal funding, the project aims to enhance approximately four and a half miles of Route 18. 

Planned improvements include milling and paving, upgrading drainage systems and stormwater basins, relocating utilities, and the addition of new sidewalks alongside ADA-compliant curb ramps. The project also encompasses guide rail upgrades and modifications to various intersections within the project limits, with an anticipated completion date in fall 2026.

In conjunction with ongoing infrastructure enhancements, NJDOT underscores the importance of its 2024 Pothole Campaign, initiated on March 4. 

This campaign focuses on the aggressive and efficient repair of potholes across the state, emphasizing safety and road maintenance. NJDOT crews may close travel lanes as needed during daylight hours, primarily between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., to conduct repairs while striving to minimize traffic disruptions during peak hours.

NJDOT also reminds motorists of New Jersey’s Move Over law, urging drivers to shift lanes or slow down when approaching stationary emergency or service vehicles on the roadside.

Residents and motorists can contribute to road maintenance efforts by reporting potholes via the 1-800-POTHOLE hotline or using an online mapping tool to specify pothole locations on state roads. For potholes on county roads, contacting the respective jurisdiction is recommended.

Advance notification of traffic pattern changes related to the project will be communicated through Variable Message Signs, and motorists are encouraged to visit NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information. 

The department is committed to executing these necessary infrastructure improvements with minimal disruption and thanks the public for their patience and cooperation.