I-78 eastbound lane and ramp closures this weekend as bridge deck project advances in Somerset County
I-287 northbound Exit 21A to I-78 eastbound detoured
SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ – The two right lanes on I-78 eastbound are scheduled to be closed this weekend as the I-78 Bridges over Routes 202/206 and Washington Valley Road deck replacement project advances in Bedminster Township and Bridgewater Township.
In addition, the I-287 northbound Exit 21A ramp to I-78 eastbound also will be closed and detoured for the weekend.
Beginning at 9:00 a.m. Friday, July 7 until 6:00 a.m. Monday, July 10, the two right lanes on I-78 eastbound are scheduled to be closed before the I-78/I-287 interchange. All traffic will be directed to stay left to use the two temporary lanes. One lane is scheduled to reopen by 12:00 p.m., Sunday, July 9.
In addition, the I-287 northbound Exit 21A ramp to I-78 eastbound also will be closed and detoured from 9 a.m. Friday, July 7 until 6 a.m. Monday, July 10. These closures will allow the contractor to pour a new concrete deck on the right lanes of the I-78 Bridge over Routes 202/206.
By 6:00 a.m. Monday, July 10, the I-287 northbound Exit 21A ramp to I-78 eastbound and all lanes on I-78 eastbound will reopen. Motorists should expect delays and plan extra travel time or consider alternate routes.
I-287 northbound ramp to I-78 eastbound detour:
- Motorists on I-287 northbound wishing to take Exit 21A to I-78 eastbound will be directed to continue on I-287 northbound
- Take Exit 26B/CR 525/Mount Airy Road northbound/Bernardsville
- Take ramp for I-287 southbound
- Take Exit 21A for I-78 eastbound/New York City
The $27.9 million federally-funded project will replace both eastbound and westbound bridge decks that carry I-78 over Route 202/206 and Washington Valley Road, which are in poor condition. In addition, the existing guiderail will be brought up to current standards.
New approach slabs will be constructed at all four bridges, and the roadway will be resurfaced within project limits. The project was designed to advance in stages to minimize impact on motorists, beginning with the eastbound bridges.
Construction of all bridges is expected to be completed by fall 2025.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website for real-time travel information.