Multiple signal projects and upgrades planned as officials target high-traffic corridors
TOMS RIVER, N.J. — New traffic signals and safety upgrades are coming to several busy intersections across Ocean County, as commissioners move forward with a series of agreements aimed at improving roadway safety in Berkeley, Lakewood, and Brick.
County officials approved multiple projects focused on signal installation and infrastructure improvements at key intersections known for heavy traffic and safety concerns.
New traffic signals planned across multiple towns
Several of the approved projects center on installing new traffic lights at intersections that currently lack signal control.
In Berkeley Township, a new signal will be installed at the intersection of Ocean Gate Drive (County Route 625), Mill Creek Road, and Veeder Lane—an area that connects residential neighborhoods with a major corridor.
Lakewood Township will see the largest share of improvements, with multiple new signals planned, including:
- Cross Street and Prospect Street
- Cross Street and White Road/White Street
- Chestnut Street near Route 70 Ramp “E” and Lisa Robyn Circle
- Cross Street and James Street/Franklin Boulevard
These intersections are among the township’s more heavily traveled areas, where increased traffic volume has raised safety concerns.
Upgrades to existing infrastructure
In addition to new signals, the county is also moving to enhance existing traffic systems.
One project includes modifications to a traffic signal at Massachusetts Avenue and Cross Street in Lakewood, where officials plan to add battery backup systems and generator bypass capabilities.
These upgrades are designed to keep signals operational during power outages, improving safety and reducing confusion at intersections during emergencies.
Key Points
• New traffic signals approved in Berkeley and multiple Lakewood intersections
• Upgrades include backup power systems for existing signals
• Brick roadway designation also updated as part of county action
Brick roadway designation restored
As part of the broader traffic and infrastructure agenda, commissioners also voted to reinstate Duquesne Boulevard in Brick Township as a county road.
The roadway, which runs from Route 70 to Brick Boulevard, had previously been removed from county designation in 2004. Restoring it to county control may allow for additional maintenance and future improvements.
Focus on high-traffic and growing areas
The concentration of projects in Lakewood reflects ongoing growth and increased traffic demands in the township, one of the fastest-growing areas in Ocean County.
Officials have increasingly focused on signalized intersections as a way to:
- Reduce accidents
- Improve traffic flow
- Enhance pedestrian safety
Berkeley’s project similarly targets a key connector road where traffic patterns have evolved over time.
What comes next
The approved agreements allow the county to move forward with coordination between municipalities and begin the process of design, installation, and upgrades.
Timelines for construction were not immediately specified, but such projects typically move through engineering and scheduling phases before installation begins.
Related coverage has highlighted similar traffic safety investments across the region as counties respond to population growth and increased roadway use.
All projects are now authorized to proceed under county agreements, with implementation expected in upcoming phases as planning advances.