Road paving. Paving a residential street by laying asphalt which is initially in the dump truck and then is pressed down to form the new road surface.
Road Paving. Paving a residential street by laying asphalt which is initially in the dump truck and then is pressed down to form the new road surface.

Overnight Route 18 closure set for East Brunswick as $86 million road project continues

TRENTON, N.J. – Southbound lanes of Route 18 in East Brunswick will close overnight Friday as part of the state’s ongoing drainage and pavement rehabilitation project.

The closure will begin at 10 p.m. Friday, October 31, and last until 5 a.m. Saturday, November 1.

Traffic will be detoured between West Ferris Street and Racetrack Road while milling and paving work is completed.


Key Points

  • Route 18 southbound will close overnight Friday between West Ferris Street and Racetrack Road
  • The work is part of an $86.1 million federally funded roadway improvement project
  • The overall project includes drainage, paving, and accessibility upgrades through 2027

Overnight detour in effect

Drivers on Route 18 southbound will be redirected via West Ferris Street, Old Bridge Turnpike, and Racetrack Road before rejoining Route 18. Variable message signs have been placed in the area to alert motorists ahead of the closure. Officials advise travelers to plan alternate routes and expect delays.

Major infrastructure upgrade

The closure is part of a multi-year $86.1 million project focused on improving 4.5 miles of Route 18 through East Brunswick. The New Jersey Department of Transportation said the work includes repaving, stormwater drainage improvements, utility relocations, and installation of ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps.

Completion expected in 2027

According to the East Brunswick Police Department, the broader project will also enhance several intersections and upgrade guiderails throughout the corridor. Weather conditions could alter the schedule, but the overall completion date remains set for late 2027.

Officials encourage drivers to exercise caution in work zones and remain alert to detour signs and changing traffic patterns overnight.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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