NJDOT Statewide Pothole Repair Campaign Begins Today

Drivers Can Expect Daytime Lane Closures as Crews Work to Address Winter Road Damage

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has announced the launch of its annual statewide pothole repair campaign, set to begin on Monday, March 17. This effort, aimed at improving road conditions following a particularly active winter, will involve daytime lane closures as crews conduct necessary repairs.

With temperatures fluctuating between freezing and thawing throughout the season, pothole formation has been more severe than in previous years. Water seeps into small cracks in the pavement and expands when it freezes, causing significant damage to road surfaces. As a result, NJDOT anticipates repairing more potholes this year than last.

To complete repairs efficiently, NJDOT crews will be permitted to close travel lanes where necessary during daytime hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., in an effort to minimize disruptions during peak commuting times. Variable Message Signs (VMS) will be used to inform motorists about repair locations and any resulting traffic delays. Up-to-date information will also be available on www.511nj.org.

“The New Jersey Department of Transportation is beginning our annual pothole campaign on Monday, March 17. Over the next couple of months our priority will be repairing the most significant potholes from this winter,” Commissioner O’Connor said. “NJDOT crews work year-round to repair potholes and keep our highways in good condition, but at this time of year, it becomes our primary focus."

Permanent Repairs and Long-Term Road Improvements

As warmer temperatures allow asphalt plants to reopen, NJDOT crews will transition to more permanent repairs, such as milling and repaving sections of roadways. These more extensive repairs will generally be performed overnight to further reduce travel disruptions.

Over the past five fiscal years (FY20-FY24), NJDOT has repaired an average of approximately 153,000 potholes annually. Thanks to a focus on repaving state highways, the percentage of roads in "good" or "fair" condition has increased from 47% in 2008 to 81% today. So far in FY25 (July 1, 2024 – March 13, 2025), approximately 89,100 potholes have been repaired, with peak repair season still ahead.

Safety Reminders for Motorists

Drivers are urged to exercise caution in work zones to ensure the safety of road crews. Under New Jersey’s Move Over Law, motorists are required to switch lanes when approaching emergency or service vehicles stopped on the roadside. If changing lanes is not possible, drivers must slow down significantly.

NJDOT also encourages the public to report potholes on state highways by calling 1-800-POTHOLE (1-800-768-4653) or submitting reports online using an interactive mapping feature. Potholes on county or local roads should be reported to the appropriate jurisdiction.

For real-time updates on traffic conditions and lane closures, motorists can visit www.511nj.org. 

With the busiest repair season just beginning, NJDOT is emphasizing the importance of timely pothole fixes to ensure safer and smoother travel across the state.