EAST ORANGE, N.J. – Drivers in East Orange should expect a lane closure on Freeway Drive beginning Monday as the New Jersey Department of Transportation advances a $20.3 million bridge replacement project over Interstate 280.
Beginning at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 24, the left lane of Freeway Drive eastbound will close before the South Munn Avenue intersection, according to NJDOT. The closure is scheduled to remain in place through Friday, Aug. 28.
The right lane will remain open for motorists crossing the intersection or turning right onto South Munn Avenue. NJDOT said the closure is necessary for excavation and utility conduit installation.
- The eastbound left lane will close beginning at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday.
- Freeway Drive westbound could also be temporarily closed during construction.
- The federally funded $20.3 million project is scheduled for completion in spring 2028.
Bridge Replacement Project Advances Over I-280
The work is part of a larger project replacing the North Munn Avenue bridge decks and superstructure over I-280 in East Orange, Essex County.
NJDOT said crews will demolish and reconstruct the concrete bridge decks, make substructure repairs, replace bearings and repair structural steel.
The existing bridge sidewalk will also be reconstructed, and shoulders will be added in both directions.
Motorists traveling through the work zone are being urged to slow down and use caution. If construction requires Freeway Drive westbound to close temporarily, drivers will be directed along a signed detour.
Variable message signs will provide motorists with advance notice of traffic-pattern changes.
NJDOT said the precise timing of the work remains subject to weather and other factors. Drivers can check 511NJ for real-time traffic and travel information.
Sources: New Jersey Department of Transportation press release issued Aug. 21, 2026; 511NJ real-time traffic information.
