LAKEWOOD, N.J. — Ocean County officials unveiled details Monday about a major infrastructure project that will transform Cross Street into a five-lane thoroughfare, creating a new east-west connection linking Toms River, Lakewood and Jackson.
This plan was first reported by Shore News Network last week.
The project, currently underway with the installation of a new center turning lane, is the first phase of a multi-year plan that will ultimately widen Cross Street to four travel lanes plus a turning lane. New and upgraded traffic signals will also be added throughout the corridor.
“Cross Street is a vital artery in Lakewood Township – the fastest growing community in the state,” said John P. Kelly, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. “The Board recognizes the need to fund further improvements and we expect the next phase of work to begin next year.”
Phase two of the plan includes widening the full length of Cross Street from Route 9 to County Route 528 (East Veterans Highway) and installing traffic lights at several key intersections. A new signal at Cross and Prospect Streets is scheduled to go live by fall 2026. Additional upgraded signals will be placed at Cross Street and James Street/Franklin Avenue, as well as Cross Street and East Veterans Highway.
A new light is also planned at Cross Street and White Road. The full roadway expansion, including the additional two travel lanes, is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Expansion targets traffic growth across region
Before the improvements began, Cross Street was a two-lane roadway for its entire 1.5-mile stretch. With construction progressing, the project aims to support increased traffic volumes as the region continues to grow.
“By the time the construction project is completed, Cross Street will have four traffic lanes and a turning lane along its entire length from Route 9 west to County Route 528,” said Kelly.
County officials emphasized the need to accommodate future development and congestion, particularly in Lakewood, which has seen rapid residential and commercial growth in recent years.
“This project is designed for the traffic that is there today, tomorrow and into the future,” Kelly said. “Ultimately the completed improvements should help us maintain traffic on this road for many years.”
Ocean County expects the full upgrade to be completed without interruption to daily traffic flow.
Kelly did not say how much the project will cost.
