MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — Morris County officials announced the reopening of the Gaston Road bridge in Morris Township after a county-funded replacement project was completed about three weeks ahead of schedule and within budget.
Construction on the bridge, located about midway along Gaston Road, began March 2 and required the closure of the roadway to through traffic between Washington Valley Road and Sussex Turnpike.
“This project reflects Morris County’s continued commitment to investing in reliable infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to residents whenever possible,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw. “Completing this bridge replacement ahead of schedule is a credit to the coordination between county engineers, our contractor and local officials, and we appreciate the patience of residents and motorists throughout construction.”
County officials said the new bridge includes a four-sided precast concrete culvert with stone-faced walls and a white picket-style railing designed to complement the surrounding area.
The roadway width across the bridge also was expanded to 26 feet, creating two 13-foot travel lanes intended to improve traffic flow and safety.
Officials said the project replaced an aging concrete slab bridge spanning a tributary of the Whippany River that had deteriorated despite multiple repairs, making full replacement the most practical and cost-effective option.
Gaston Road is a one-mile roadway connecting Sussex Turnpike and Washington Valley Road and serves as a local connector for residents and motorists traveling through Morris Township.
The project was completed by CMS Construction Inc. of Plainfield within the county-funded budget of $641,487.
