Overnight snow slows Wednesday commute across New Jersey as speed restrictions and delays mount

Overnight snow slows Wednesday commute across New Jersey as speed restrictions and delays mount

TRENTON, NJ – A fresh round of snow blanketed much of New Jersey early Wednesday, creating slick roads, reduced visibility, and widespread travel delays across the state’s major highways, bridges, and tunnels.


Key Points

  • Statewide 35–45 mph speed restrictions in effect on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.
  • Multiple weather-related crashes reported, including on I-295 and the Hudson County Extension.
  • Delays at all Hudson River crossings, with 30-minute waits at the George Washington and Lincoln Tunnels.

Icy conditions lead to reduced speeds statewide

As of 8:45 a.m., New Jersey Turnpike officials had imposed speed restrictions ranging from 35 to 45 mph across most of the highway due to snow and ongoing salting and plowing operations. The Pennsylvania Extension, Hudson County Extension, and Eastern Spur were all affected.

Similar restrictions were announced on the Garden State Parkway, where motorists faced icy conditions and maintenance crews worked to treat the road surface. The Atlantic City Expressway also reported active road treatment between Washington and Hamilton Townships, with motorists advised to move over for highway workers.

Crashes and congestion compound morning delays

Commuters encountered a string of crashes and backups across the state, including an accident on I-295 southbound near Exit 22 in West Deptford Township that shut two lanes, and a crash on the Turnpike’s Hudson County Extension westbound near the Newark Bay Bridge blocking a right lane.

In North Jersey, Route 17 in Hasbrouck Heights and Route 21 through Newark saw delays from minor collisions, while I-280, I-287, and the Pulaski Skyway experienced heavy volume and weather-related slowdowns.

Long waits at bridges and tunnels into New York

Conditions worsened near the Hudson River crossings, where travel times reached 30 minutes at both the George Washington Bridge and the Lincoln Tunnel. The Holland Tunnel reported 20-minute delays from the New Jersey Turnpike Exit 14C and Route 139.

Officials continue urging drivers to allow extra travel time, reduce speed, and check 511nj.org or nj511.gov for the latest road conditions.

For continuing coverage of winter weather and traffic impacts across New Jersey, follow Shore News Network.