Project 1
The Reconstruction Between Interchanges 14 and 14A
The highest priority project
Project 1, the reconstruction between Interchange 14 in Newark and Interchange 14A in Bayonne and Jersey City, is the highest priority project due to the age and deteriorating condition of the bridges. The Project 1 area consists of multiple ramps and 16 bridges, including the Vincent Robert Casciano Bridge, known as the Newark Bay Bridge. This project will replace all 16 bridges with the Newark Bay Bridge being replaced with two new twin bridges depicted above. These new Newark Bay Bridges will serve as an iconic gateway to Bayonne, Jersey City, and Newark communities and help relieve traffic congestion resulting from the record growth of the communities and the port facility in Bayonne.
Project Benefits by the Numbers
Service Life
100 Years
Employment
25,000 Jobs
Labor Income
2 Billion
Economic Activity
2.8 Billion
What’s Under the Bridges?
Safety is the first and most important consideration in every decision made by the Turnpike Authority.
For years, the Turnpike Extension’s 29 bridges have carried loads heavier than they were designed to carry. The wear and tear caused by age has been made worse by the increased volume of larger, heavier trucks and electric vehicles, requiring frequent maintenance. Between 2019 and 2024, there wasn’t a single month without a lane or shoulder closure due to maintenance. These frequent and expensive repairs are necessary to keep the bridges safe, but they also cause congestion and traffic to back up onto local roads.
The Extension bridges are safe. If the Turnpike Extension were ever deemed unsafe, the Turnpike Authority would limit access or close it altogether for repairs, as was done in 2017 when a serious structural issue was discovered.
Inspection photos of the Project 1 substructural issues.
Staging Construction to Minimize Impacts
To minimize impacts on drivers, the surrounding communities, and the environment, the Turnpike Authority has planned a phased strategy for the replacement of the Newark Bay Bridge that will not increase traffic congestion. To view the staging process, watch this helpful video.
Schedule Updates
This section is devoted to the timeline for Project 1.
2025
Final Design is underway for the first project, Interchanges 14 to 14A. It incorporates many of the comments and recommendations received during the Public Information Centers and community meetings.
Early 2026
Construction of a pair of in-water trestles, extending from each side of the Newark Bay, will begin in early 2026. This will facilitate construction of the first new Newark Bay Bridge, scheduled to be completed in 2031. Because this construction is taking place in Newark Bay, there will be no impact to traffic on the Extension.
Ongoing
Public involvement will be ongoing throughout Project 1 and the entirety of the Program. To learn more visit the Public Involvement page.