Officials Urge Pulaski Skyway Commuters To Use Mass Transit
JERSEY CITY, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Officials are advising commuters who use the Pulaski Skyway that last week was the exception, not the norm.
No major traffic problems have been reported since northbound lanes were closed to repair the 82-year-old span as part of a two-year, $1 billion renovation project.
Officials Urge Pulaski Skyway Commuters To Use Mass Transit
Officials say that's because Jersey City schools were closed and traffic was lighter with people observing Easter and Passover holidays.
But officials are expecting traffic volume to return to normal this week and are urging motorists to use mass transit.
"We believe that this week and next week is going to be the real test and people are still finding their way," Department of Transportation Commissioner James Simpson told 1010 WINS. "We have not declared victory yet. So far, so good and, I hope it's not the case, but we kind of think the worst is still yet to come."
EXTRAS: Navigating The Pulaski Skyway Shutdown | Traffic & Transit
About 74,000 vehicles use the Pulaski Skyway between Newark and Jersey City daily. Much of that traffic is now being rerouted through Jersey City.
Officials Urge Pulaski Skyway Commuters To Use Mass Transit
"A lot of headaches, road rage and short tempers," said driver Shawn Carter.
Drivers will have to find alternate routes, including the Turnpike extension, I-78, and Route 9. Jersey City declared a state of emergency and is deploying more than 50 police officers to direct traffic through the city.
LINKS: Skyway Rehab Twitter | Pulaski Skyway Travel Times | Pulaski Skyway Maps
Mass transit options include a new park-and-ride bus near Newark airport and new ferry service from Monmouth County during the two-year closure.
Extra trains and additional capacity are also being offered by NJ TRANSIT and PATH during the morning commute.
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