BYRAM TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — Work on a long-running utility project along Route 206 is nearing completion, with a second northbound lane expected to reopen soon, according to Byram Mayor Alex Rubenstein.
The project, which involved gas line installation and required lane closures, has caused months of delays for commuters and local businesses.
“I know this project has been frustrating. What was supposed to be a short-term lane closure has dragged on for months, and I hear the complaints loud and clear—from commuters and from our local businesses,” Rubenstein said in an update.
According to information provided by the gas company, the main drilling portion of the project has been completed. Crews have finished the connection on the north side and are now working to complete the final connection on the south side of the bridge, tying into a line that runs toward the ShopRite area.
Mayor Rubenstein said the work could be completed by Saturday morning if conditions allow.
“If everything goes according to plan—and the weather cooperates—they’re hoping to wrap that up by Saturday morning,” he said.
Once the work is finished, equipment will be removed from the roadway and the second northbound lane is expected to reopen.
Additional work will still be required, but officials said it is expected to take place overnight, with lanes reopened during the day.
Rubenstein noted that progress has already been impacted by weather delays and remains dependent on conditions moving forward.
“We’ll keep pushing for this to get finished as quickly as possible. Appreciate everyone’s patience—this one has taken longer than any of us wanted,” he said.
