Traffic relief in Middlesex County, NJ — new lanes opening along Route 1

⚫ Rush hour commuters are getting some relief along Route 1

⚫ The change adds to a different congestion relief put in place in 2017

⚫ The pilot run will last for several months

A project designed to reduce traffic along Route 1 in Middlesex County and make your commute a bit smoother is getting underway.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation is extending the length of the highway on which drivers can use the shoulder as a travel lane, at least temporarily.

Starting Thursday morning, northbound and southbound vehicles can use the shoulder as a lane during peak travel times between CR 522/Promenade Boulevard/Stouts Lane in South Brunswick and Thomas Avenue in North Brunswick. That's a stretch of 4.5 miles.

The additional lanes can be used from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The change adds to an already existing Hard Shoulder Running project along Route 1 that runs from Thomas Avenue to Independence Way.

Now the shoulder can be used for seven straight miles each way.

Trucks are still blocked from using the shoulder as a travel lane.

Thursday begins a pilot run of the congestion relief project. Once it's been in place for several months, officials will determine if the project was a success without compromising safety.

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The original Hard Shoulder Running project launched in 2017. The 2.3-mile stretch includes electronic signals to let drivers know when the shoulder can be used a travel lane.

The new stretch of additional lanes will have pavement markings and guide signs. Electronic guides may be added if the change becomes permanent.

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