I-78 temporary stoppages in both directions to begin next week for rockfall mitigation project in Hunterdon County
Project resuming after winter hiatus
BETHLEHEM TOWNSHIP, NJ (Hunterdon County) – I-78 is scheduled to have temporary stoppages in both direction beginning next week as a rockfall mitigation project resumes in Bethlehem Township.
Blasting is expected to begin as early as next week and will take place during the day from 9:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., Monday through Saturdays, with temporary 20-minute stoppages of traffic on I-78 in both directions, through summer 2024.
New Jersey State Police will be assisting with the temporary closures and NJDOT will provide notice before any longer lane closures occur. Motorists are advised to slow down, use caution, and expect delays or plan an alternate route, officials said.
The $32.9 million federally-funded project will mitigate rockfall hazards along a section of I-78 eastbound and westbound between milepost 9.96 and milepost 10.55. It includes rock scaling to cut back the slope and excavation to widen the catch area to prevent rocks from potentially reaching the highway. In addition, there will be drainage improvements.
The project is anticipated to be complete by fall 2024.
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 construction updates and real-time travel information.
