Know Before You Go: Controversy surrounds $11B NJ Turnpike expansion project
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority's plan to rebuild an 8-mile stretch of the I-78 extension is sparking controversy.
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The New Jersey Turnpike Authority's plan to rebuild an 8-mile stretch of the I-78 extension is sparking controversy.
News 12’s Roxanne Evans reports the $11 billion project, known as the Newark Bay Hudson County Extension Improvements Program, aims to double the number of lanes through Bayonne and Jersey City, as well as rebuild the Newark Bay Bridge.
The Turnpike Authority claims the project will improve safety, ease traffic and create 25,000 jobs. Construction is scheduled to start in 2026, following the approval of a $142 million design contract in August.
Mayors from Jersey City, Hoboken and Newark have expressed concern, and opposition is mounting from residents and environmental advocates.
“It will have a huge environmental impact," says Doug O'Malley, with Environment NJ. "It will increase climate pollutants, air pollution, allow more diesel trucks on the road ... it’s a really bad use of money."
