The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has received a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the first project in the Newark Bay-Hudson County Extension Improvements Program. This decision, along with a Bridge Permit, allows the authority to proceed with reconstructing the Turnpike Extension between Interchanges 14 in Newark and 14A in Bayonne and Jersey City.
The FONSI supports the Environmental Assessment conducted by the Turnpike Authority under the National Environmental Policy Act. The assessment concluded that the project will maintain or improve environmental and community quality while addressing traffic congestion between Interchanges 14 and 14A. The U.S. Coast Guard, which led the review, issued both the FONSI and Bridge Permit.
As part of its mitigation strategy, the Turnpike Authority will implement air quality, noise, and vibration monitoring systems, require low-emissions construction equipment, and engage with local communities throughout construction. These measures are part of an adaptive management plan designed to prevent unforeseen impacts from construction activities.
“While the Finding of No Significant Impact confirms that the project complies with federal public health guidelines, we are making sure we stay below those standards by implementing robust air quality and noise monitoring systems and taking other proactive steps to enhance the well-being of neighboring communities,” said James Carone, Executive Director of the Turnpike Authority.
The Newark Bay-Hudson County Extension spans 8.1 miles from Interchange 14 in Newark to Jersey Avenue in Jersey City. Built in the mid-1950s, it requires modernization as most bridges have reached their service life end.
Construction is set to begin in 2026 and last ten years. The initial phase includes replacing the Newark Bay Bridge with twin cable-stayed bridges. The existing bridge will remain operational until one new span is completed by 2031; then it will be demolished. Upon completion of both bridges by 2036, traffic will be permanently configured across four lanes on each bridge.
“The people who rely on the Turnpike Extension everyday deserve safe, modern bridges,” stated Daniel L. Hesslein, P.E., Chief Engineer at the Turnpike Authority. “The FONSI and bridge permits are important milestones in that process.”
Since 2021, coordination has taken place among various agencies and stakeholders during planning phases for this project. Public Information Centers were held locally alongside virtual resources available online.
Over 1,200 comments were submitted during public consultation periods which informed final assessments including an adaptive management plan reflecting public feedback collected through extensive meetings conducted by Program Manager Lisa K Navarro P.E., senior supervising engineer at NJTA: “We have prioritized listening to community voices… strong public health protections outlined reflect concerns relayed.”
Further details about these initiatives can be found on nbhce.com’s Environmental Responsibility page.
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