Ah, New Jersey—a state so full of character, from its beautiful beaches and lush forests to its…exasperating roads? If you’ve ever had the “pleasure” of driving in the Garden State, you know that some of our roads can be more like nightmares paved in asphalt.
Here’s a roundup of some of the most hated roads and highways in New Jersey, and why they’ve earned this dubious distinction.
Garden State Parkway
Don’t let the name fool you; there’s little that’s “garden-like” about this artery, especially during rush hour. While the Garden State Parkway is essential for getting from North to South Jersey (and vice versa), it’s also notorious for its traffic jams, expensive tolls, and occasional bottlenecks. No wonder it’s a favorite subject of commuter horror stories.
Route 22
Anyone familiar with Route 22 knows that it’s not for the faint of heart. This bustling highway features a medley of strip malls, confusing jughandles, and high-speed traffic, creating a driving experience that’s as stressful as it is unpredictable. For many, navigating Route 22 feels like an obstacle course that tests the limits of their patience and driving skills.
Route 1/9
Also known colloquially as “1 and 9,” this road is a regular headache for commuters and travelers alike. From its numerous traffic lights to a mishmash of lanes that merge without warning, Route 1/9 has it all if by “all” you mean “every possible road frustration.” To make matters worse, it’s one of the primary routes for reaching Newark Liberty International Airport, making it an unavoidable pain for many.
I-287
While not as perpetually clogged as some other highways on this list, I-287 gets a special mention for the treacherous stretch known as “Dead Man’s Curve” near Exit 30. This section has been the site of numerous accidents and is especially dangerous in wet or icy conditions. Add in the big trucks that often use this interstate, and you’ve got a nerve-wracking drive that many try to avoid whenever possible.
I-80
Last but not least, we have Interstate 80. This crucial east-west route spans the width of the state, but its crowded, often narrow lanes make for a claustrophobic journey. And let’s not forget the S-curve near the Delaware Water Gap, which has led many an unsuspecting driver to grip their steering wheel a bit tighter.
Honorable Mentions
- Route 17: Known for its erratic drivers and equally erratic lane changes.
- Route 3: Its proximity to MetLife Stadium means game-day traffic can be a nightmare.
- New Jersey Turnpike: While it’s generally better maintained and less congested than other routes, the tolls and never-ending construction give plenty of drivers reason to complain.
New Jersey may be small, but its complex network of roads and highways loom large in the minds of its drivers. While we may not be able to avoid these routes entirely, knowing what we’re up against can at least prepare us for the journey ahead—both literally and metaphorically. Happy driving, New Jersey!