TRENTON – Senator Shirley K. Turner (D-Mercer) today announced that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) will be moving forward with plans to strengthen three bridges that traverse the Delaware and Raritan Canal in Ewing Township in order to provide heavy-weight firefighting vehicles with more direct access to respond to emergencies.
“This is a big win for Ewing because these bridges have been a great concern to our volunteer firefighters who are committed to providing the best possible service to residents,” said Sen. Turner. “I’m pleased that the DOT has been receptive to our concerns and agreed to take the necessary steps to strengthen these bridges. Residents will have peace of mind knowing that our emergency squads have unencumbered access to respond quickly to their needs.”
In response to concerns brought to light by Township officials and the West Trenton Volunteer Fire Company No.1, Sen. Turner has been working with the DOT since the Fall to address the weight limits at the following three bridges, which currently do not support the heavy loads posed by firefighting vehicles:
• Lower Ferry Road Bridge
• Wilburtha Road Bridge
• Bernard Drive Bridge
Sen. Turner’s office received word this week that the DOT will begin work in the Spring to strengthen these bridges in order to support the heavy weight of the fire vehicles, which ranges from 31-77,000 pounds. Design work for the project has been completed, however additional details and timeframe specifics have not yet been finalized.
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