ATLANTIC COUNTY ROUTE 629 PEDESTRIAN & TRAFFIC SIGNAL IMPROVEMENTS

Atlantic County recently completed roadway improvements that are being funded with approximately $12,170,500 million in loans from the NJ Transportation Bank, a joint low-rate funding program of the DOT and the NJ I-Bank. Total savings for this project are estimated to be $1,716,067 over the 15-year term of the loan or 14% of the total project cost. In addition, this project created an estimated 144 direct construction jobs.

The project included improvements to County Road 629, a shore route that passes through the municipalities of Longport Borough, Margate City, Ventnor City, and terminates in Atlantic City. The Road is classified as an urban principal arterial. Serving shore communities with seasonal vacation homes, beach access, and recreational attractions, there is a significant increase in traffic during the summer along with increased pedestrian and bicycle activity. Intersections and approach roadways were surveyed and analyzed for signal design and pedestrian walkway improvements. A variety of pollution reduction measures were undertaken. Specifically, GPS clocks were installed to allow for time-based signal coordination on a fixed cycle length to optimize traffic flow by preventing cycles from drifting out of sync. Video detection devices were installed to reduce idling and further improve traffic flow. Cameras were installed to actuate side-street green times and reduce vehicle emissions. Dilemma zone detection was installed at intersections with significant rates of speed. High visibility crosswalks and ADA-compliant curb ramps were also installed to improve pedestrian safety. Where physically possible, curb radii were modified to meet current standards and sidewalk panels were replaced to meet slope requirements.

Nicholas Russo, Mayor of Longport Borough, one of the municipalities benefiting from the project, recognized its importance. "This project is a win-win situation for all. It increases safety for our full-time residents, and our vacationing visitors. It benefits the environment and enhances traffic flow. The county has done a great job with all these improvements, and the reduced rate borrowing from the Transportation Bank will save our residents and taxpayers money in the long run."

This project was designed by Atlantic County in-house engineering and Maser Consulting. It was constructed by L. Feriozzi Concrete Company.