Jefferson Township declares state of emergency amid Route 15 southbound closure
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP, NJ (Morris County) – Jefferson Township Mayor Eric Wilsusen has declared a state of emergency over the unplanned closure of the Route 15 southbound over the Rockaway River.
Route 15 southbound was closed Tuesday between Taylor Road and Cedar Terrace due to structural concerns with the bridge.
“It does not give us a lot of authority, but we are incurring expenses due to this closure. Hopefully, it will help recoup some costs from a situation resulting from a structural failure of a State Highway Bridge and its closure,” Wilsusen said.
The NJDOT, in a conference call with area officials, said it is unknown when the state will be able to set up even a temporary bypass to accommodate southbound traffic on Route 15.
“We were told NJ DOT should have a plan in place by Friday, June 7th, for what they believe will be the fastest solution to get the bridge at least partially opened,” Wilsusen said.
Motorists are currently being detoured through narrow, local streets in Jefferson creating an emergency situation in that area.
While Jefferson Township, aided by Morris County, Sussex County and surrounding emergency and law enforcement agencies, are managing the traffic flow, motorists are urged to remain patient, plan for delays and follow the posted detour signs and the instructions of law enforcement officers monitoring traffic.
