UPDATE: Route 9/72 Bridge Construction In Manahawkin Postponed

The new traffic pattern that was supposed to begin Friday will be delayed until Friday, Sept. 27.

The new pattern, which will begin at 8 p.m., will be at Route 72 at Route 9, as part of  phase 2 of the Route 72 bridge replacement over Route 9.

This phase of the project will entail traffic detours and installation of a temporary traffic signal. It is anticipated that this phase of the project will cause heavy traffic delays during the morning and evening rush hours on both Route 72 and Route 9, according to Stafford police.

The new traffic patterns will be as follows (or you can visit the map here or click on the picture displayed above this article):

Motorists traveling south on Route 9 attempting to access Route 72 east:

Must exit utilize West Bay Avenue to Route 72 west and utilize the jug-handle near Stafford Square (Shop Rite) to access Route 72 eastbound.

Motorists traveling east on Route 72 attempting to access Route 9 north:

Traffic will exit onto Old South Broadway and will directed to a temporary intersection south of Route 72 near the Ocean County Southern Service Center.  This temporary intersection will be controlled by a traffic signal which will allow motorist to make a left turn onto Route 9 North.

Motorists traveling on Route 9 north attempting to access Route 72 east:

There are no changes.  Utilize the normal access ramp.

Motorists traveling east on Route 72:

Traffic will be diverted into one eastbound lane which will cross over the median to the westbound side of the highway  until crossing the Route 9 bridge where they will cross back to eastbound after the bridge

Traffic on Route 72 in the area of the Route 9 bridge project will restricted to one eastbound and two westbound lanes.  The lanes will be separated by concrete barriers.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to replace this bridge without causing traffic inconvenience, according to Stafford officials.  Please plan your trips accordingly as this will cause heavy traffic delays during the morning and evening rush on Route 72 and Route 9. 

Any questions or concerns pertaining to the construction or traffic patterns should be directed to the NJ Department of Transportation at (609)530-5587