def # 113 08/08/12
SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS COMING TO JACKSON’S FRANCIS MILLS ROAD AND ROUTE 571
TOMS RIVER - Work to bring safety improvements to Route 571 and Francis Mills Road in Jackson Township is scheduled to
begin by late Fall.
"This is a project that has many facets and will be a benefit to motorists when completed," said Freeholder John P. Kelly,
Director of Law and Public Safety. "In addition the work is fully funded by the Federal Highway Authority."
The Freeholders are scheduled to approve going out to bid for the work during their Aug. 15 meeting.
The proposed project involves the realignment and reconstruction of over 3,000 feet of Route 571 in the vicinity of
the Francis Mills preserve along with the full replacement of the existing structurally deficient bridge near Reed Road.
The proposed project improves the horizontal and vertical roadway geometry to accommodate the design speed limit by
increasing the ‘S’ curve radius from 500 feet to 1,000 feet, increasing the pavement width to accommodate two 12 feet wide
lanes and two 10 feet wide shoulders, and providing a super-elevated roadway cross slope to meet today’s roadway standards.
The existing 20 foot long, structurally deficient concrete bridge, built in 1929, will be fully replaced with a 28 foot
long, precast concrete arch bridge supported on steel pipe piles. The span crosses the Toms River.
Also, as part of the project, Rodriguez Lane will be converted into a cul-de-sac at Route 571 eliminating poor sight
distance and substandard geometry. In addition, realignment improvements will be made at the intersection with Leesville
Road.
"The project will be completed through staged construction, allowing two lanes of traffic to be in effect at all times,"
Kelly said. "We will keep motorists moving through the area, minimizing traffic ties ups because of construction."
The project is expected to be completed in about 15 months.
The cost of the project is estimated at $4.3 million and will be fully funded by the Federal Highway Authority.
"Our Engineering Department worked with the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority in securing these funds," said
Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little. "We are pleased this important public works project will be covered by federal money."
Freeholder James F. Lacey noted that the project brings an added layer of safety to the area in Jackson Township.
"Roadway safety is a priority to this Board," said Lacey, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Road Department. "This
project with its road realignment, bridge replacement and other features provides a safer roadway for motorists in this
area of Jackson Township."
