rap #84 5/11/11

NEW TRAFFIC SIGNAL AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS COMING THIS SUMMER TO TOMS RIVER, MANCHESTER AND JACKSON TOWNSHIPS

NUMEROUS SAFETY upgrades are planned for some Ocean County roads this summer, along with a new traffic signal in Toms River Township.

The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders will seek bids on three separate projects designed to improve motorist safety, said Freeholder John P. Kelly, Director of Law and Public Safety.

First up is a new traffic signal at Old Freehold Road and Intermediate North Way in Toms River.

The signal will improve access to nearby Toms River Intermediate School North.

A large historic tree near the intersection will not be impacted by the upgrade, which is expected to cost about $275,000.

The county will also install various upgrades, including signs and new guardrails along County Route 571 between routes 547 and 537 in Manchester and Jackson townships.

"We’re looking to improve the general safety of this heavily traveled roadway," Kelly said.

The cost is estimated at about $90,000.

The county will also invest about $600,000 on new bridge rail end treatments at 64 different bridges around the county.

Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari said the end treatments are designed to collapse when struck by a vehicle.

"If a vehicle strikes the end of a guardrail in just the right place, the consequences can be tragic," Vicari said. "This relatively simple upgrade is designed to save lives."

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