The temporary bridge on Route 15 southbound in Jefferson, Morris County, New Jersey, has reopened a week earlier than expected. The original bridge, which is 124 years old and crosses the Rockaway River, was closed last month by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) due to safety concerns during its replacement process.
The temporary bridge is carrying two lanes of southbound traffic, following a similar alignment to the original bridge. The reopening comes as a relief to local residents and businesses who have been dealing with traffic detours and delays since the original bridge's closure.
The closure of the original bridge prompted Jefferson Township Mayor Eric Wilsusen to declare a state of emergency on June 6. The new southbound bridge is still under construction and is expected to be completed by fall 2025. The $11.6 million project will result in a single-span concrete box beam structure with two 12-foot-wide travel lanes, 10-foot-wide inside and outside shoulders, and sidewalks on both sides of the bridge.
Despite the reopening of the temporary bridge, motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website for real-time travel information and updates on the ongoing construction of the new southbound bridge.