UPDATE: Commercial vehicle travel restrictions lifted on all interstate highways as of 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 27
UPDATE: Commercial Vehicle Travel Restrictions Lifted on all Interstate highways as of 8 a.m. today, Saturday, December 27
NEW JERSEY – The New Jersey Department of Transportation on Friday imposed commercial vehicle travel restrictions on several Interstate highways beginning at 3 p.m. as a significant winter storm is expected to impact much of the state.
NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said the restrictions were issued due to forecasts calling for snow statewide, with the highest accumulations expected in North and Central Jersey. Snow is expected to begin Friday afternoon and transition to ice and rain as the storm continues into Saturday, potentially creating hazardous driving conditions.
The restrictions, which are being coordinated with neighboring states, apply in both directions on Interstate 78, Interstate 80, Interstate 280, Interstate 287, and Route 440 from the Outerbridge Crossing to I-287. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.
Commercial vehicle restrictions apply to all tractor-trailers, with limited exceptions outlined in an administrative order, as well as empty straight CDL-weighted trucks, passenger vehicles pulling trailers, recreational vehicles and motorcycles.
The restrictions do not apply to the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway or Atlantic City Expressway. Public safety vehicles and personnel supporting healthcare facilities or critical infrastructure, including fuel and food delivery, are also exempt.
Trucks already in New Jersey when the restrictions take effect are encouraged to wait out the storm at truck stops. NJDOT warned drivers not to park on highway shoulders.
In addition to the commercial vehicle ban, NJDOT urged all motorists to avoid unnecessary travel Friday and Saturday to allow crews to safely and efficiently clear roadways. Drivers who must travel are advised to slow down, maintain safe following distances, stay clear of plowing and spreading trucks, and use caution on bridges and ramps.
Motorists are encouraged to monitor real-time traffic conditions at 511nj.org and follow NJDOT on social media for updates as weather conditions evolve.
