Route 206 Closure: Locals are taking it all in stride

The closure of Route 206 over the Stony Brook in Princeton has caused some heavier-than-normal traffic through some neighborhoods — but overall, many of those affected appear to be taking it in stride.

Earlier this week, the New Jersey Department of Transportation announced the closure of the 224-year-old bridge "until further notice" to make repairs to cracks in the support structure of the bridge. “NJDOT has closed the bridge until further notice to address these issues and inspect the bridge thoroughly to determine the best long-term course of action,” NJ DOT spokesman Kevin Israel said.

Princeton Police Lieutenant Jonathan Bucchere in an email said "It seems as though people have adjusted to the closure. We have not received any complaints from businesses that I am aware of."

Detours have been set up and marked with electronic signs on Route 206 prior to the bridge.

Maureen Leming, director of communications and marketing for the Hun School right off Route 206, said of the work on replacing a protective wall: "We are right in the heart of the detour zone. The first few days were hugely impactful for us. We had some students and faculty arriving hours late."

But she said that has "tapered significantly" this week and the school is being "as flexible as it can" with those who continue to be impacted by the closure.

Flexibility is also being offered by Bristol-Myers Squibb, which has offices located within the closure zone. Spokesman Frederick J. Egenolf said the company offers its employees flexibility for how and where they work, including working remotely and from other BMS office locations with permission from managers.

Kristine Brown, Rider University's interim assistant vice president of communications, said the school hasn't had much impact from the closure except needing to re-route its shuttle buses between campuses in Lawrenceville and Princeton.

"Others are just allowing for extra time coming to/from work while the repairs are underway," she said.

The detour suggested by Princeton Police:

• Route 206 southbound will make a right onto Georgetown Franklin Road/CR 518, a left Hopewell Princeton Road and a right back onto Route 206 southbound.
• Route 206 northbound will make left onto Carter Road, a right onto Georgetown Franklin Road/CR 518, and a left back onto Route 206 northbound.