Morris County and the NJTPA recently completed a study that explored ways to improve truck movements and safety along Berkshire Valley Road in Roxbury Township.
The study aimed to address two problems: a vertical clearance restriction created by the Chester Branch Bridge and a severe angle at the intersection of North Dell Avenue and Berkshire Valley Road. Several trucks have struck the bridge in recent years, damaging the structure and interfering with rail operations and impacting roadway operations while the bridge was repaired. The 22 degree angle of the intersection at North Dell Avenue makes it difficult for trucks to navigate.
This project was conducted through the NJTPA’s Freight Concept Development Program. Concept development studies explore different options for addressing a problem and culminate in the selection of a preliminary preferred alternative, which can be advanced to preliminary engineering for further refinement, and then eventually construction. Stakeholders and the public are engaged to help establish which needs the study should address and consider the various options. These studies also consider any impacts the project could have on the environment, cultural resources, and Environmental Justice communities.
This study recommended using accelerated bridge construction techniques to fully replace the Chester Branch Bridge. The new bridge would be taller to allow trucks to safely pass underneath. Precast concrete components would be used, which would allow for the bridge to be fully replaced in about two weeks. This would require a short closure of rail service during construction. The estimated cost is $6.6 million.
The study also recommends realigning the intersection of North Dell Avenue and Berkshire Valley Road creating a four-legged intersection with Old Timber Court. The lanes at the intersection would be widened to 50 feet to accommodate truck turning movements. This option would result in a net reduction of about 11,000 square feet of impervious pavement. The estimated cost is $632,000.
Morris County can use this study to seek funding for future phases of work for both projects.