Warren County recently updated its Transportation Plan, which presents a vision for the future of the county’s transportation network through the year 2045.
The project team reviewed existing conditions of roads, bridges, pedestrian infrastructure and transit. Computer models were used to explore different scenarios, including the impacts of industrial development and population changes in different parts of the County. For example, one model considered targeting residential development into existing regional centers, which have access to transportation options. This could help maximize active transportation modes (like walking and biking) while mitigating traffic congestion. The models were also used to explore road improvements that might be needed if certain parts of the County were developed for light industrial uses, such as warehouses or distribution centers.
The County conducted extensive public and stakeholder outreach to gather input for the Transportation Plan. This included a study website, virtual public meetings and focus groups. Presentations were pre-recorded in English and Spanish and shared on the study website so that community members could view them at any time and provide input.
The plan identifies road and bridge improvements, including addressing weight restrictions that can impede the movement of goods by truck. It also suggests bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements, and policy recommendations, such as adopting a countywide Complete Streets policy. Complete streets are roads designed users of all modes and ability levels. The plan notes that while Warren County is rural, communities with developed centers, such as Phillipsburg, Hackettstown, and Washington Borough could benefit from the policy, which could include installing traffic calming elements to improve pedestrian safety.
The County can use the data and recommendations in the plan as it considers future land use, transportation and infrastructure decisions. The plan also identifies projects that require further study before implementation, including developing a master plan for walking and biking, which could include the creation of an on- and off-road bicycle network.
Click here to view the Warren County Transportation Plan.
This study was completed through the NJTPA’s Subregional Studies Program, which provides two-year grants on a competitive annual basis to the 13 counties and two cities — known as subregions — represented on the NJTPA Board.
The program aims to help subregions develop recommendations for transportation improvements that inform and implement the NJTPA’s Long Range Transportation Plan.