JACKSON, N.J. — Jackson Mayor Michael Reina hosted New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) Commissioner Francis O’Connor and Deputy Commissioner Joseph Bertoni on Thursday to discuss concerns regarding traffic and infrastructure in the I-195 and Route 537 corridor.
That section of road becomes gridlocked each day due to traffic from Six Flags Great Adventure, the Jackson Premium Outlets,, Adventure Crossing, and the nearby businesses.
The meeting was initiated following an introduction at the NJ League of Municipalities Mayors Convention in Atlantic City this past May, where Mayor Reina voiced ongoing issues related to the one-lane overpass on I-195.
Mayor Reina highlighted the persistent traffic gridlock that occurs year-round, not just during the summer months. He emphasized that drivers heading to attractions such as Six Flags Great Adventure and daily commuters face significant delays while merging from both sides of Route 537 onto I-195.
Reina pointed out that Six Flags has extended their season beyond the summer through Fright Fest and winter holiday events.
The mayor also noted the adverse impact on emergency responders, who experience delays when reaching hospitals and accident scenes due to the heavy traffic.
Commissioner O’Connor and Deputy Commissioner Bertoni acknowledged the need for action. They announced plans to meet with engineers from Ocean and Monmouth counties, as well as Jackson and the Federal Highway Administration (FWHA), in September to address the issues surrounding Route 537 and the I-195 overpass.
Mayor Reina and Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi expressed optimism following the meeting, indicating that progress might be on the horizon. Commissioner Sadeghi, who has been a strong advocate for Ocean County, was noted as a valuable participant in the discussions.
Mayor Reina concluded by stating that Commissioner O’Connor’s commitment to the issue left him with confidence that improvements will be made in the near future.