BARNEGAT, N.J. — Drivers in Barnegat should expect changes at several key intersections this week as Ocean County Engineering prepares to overhaul traffic light timing along West Bay Avenue, Lighthouse Drive, and Barnegat Boulevard North starting Monday.
As part of the county’s signal optimization initiative, officials will also implement a new “left turn on green arrow only” rule at the intersection of West Bay Avenue and Sandpiper Road. The updates aim to address safety concerns and improve the flow of traffic during peak hours.
Key Points
- Traffic signal timing to be revised at three Barnegat intersections starting April 15
- New left-turn restriction added at West Bay Avenue and Sandpiper Road
- Project targets accident reduction and better rush hour traffic management
Safety and congestion behind timing revisions
The planned adjustments are based on data reviewed by the county, indicating a need to curb motor vehicle accidents and ease traffic congestion. Officials said the changes will apply across morning and evening rush periods.
“Please be mindful of the updated signal patterns and allow extra time when traveling these roadways during the revision process,” a statement from the agency said.
The modifications will primarily affect intersections along West Bay Avenue, which serves as a main corridor through Barnegat, connecting residential neighborhoods to commercial areas and the Garden State Parkway.
Left turn restriction to limit conflict points
At West Bay Avenue and Sandpiper Road, the new left turn restriction will limit driver movements to a green arrow signal only. This adjustment is designed to reduce conflict points that can lead to side-impact collisions.
No temporary detours are expected during the implementation, but drivers may experience minor delays as crews adjust signal patterns. Digital signs and cones may be used to alert motorists of the changes in real time.
The agency urged travelers to stay alert for changes and contact them directly for assistance or concerns during the update period. Although the revision timeline was not specified, the changes are expected to go into effect starting Monday and remain in place.
More safety measures may follow if results show improvement
Following the signal adjustments, Ocean County may evaluate traffic data again to determine if further improvements are needed elsewhere. Officials have not specified whether additional intersections are under review at this time.