EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – Major overnight closures are set to hit Route 18 this week as part of a long-term drainage and pavement rehabilitation project in Middlesex County.
Transportation officials said Route 18 southbound will be fully closed and detoured between Tices Lane and Milltown Road for three consecutive nights starting Wednesday.
The northbound right lane will also shut down beginning Friday night and remain closed through January 2026.
The southbound closures will take place from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., allowing crews to install new drainage lines and a water main beneath the highway.
Traffic will be diverted through local routes, with drivers directed along Tices Lane, Harts Lane, and Milltown Road before rejoining Route 18.
Extended northbound lane closure to follow
Beginning at 9 p.m. Friday, construction will shift to Route 18 northbound, where the right lane will close from Racetrack Road to Arthur Street. The restriction will remain in place for several weeks while workers complete curb, sidewalk, and drainage improvements.
Officials said at least one business driveway will remain accessible during the project.
Drivers urged to plan ahead
Variable message signs have been activated to alert motorists of the changing traffic patterns. The Department of Transportation warned that exact work times could shift due to weather or other delays.
Commuters using Route 18 are advised to allow extra travel time and follow posted detour signs while crews continue the infrastructure upgrades.