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A major project to modernize the road network leading into the East Coast’s busiest port complex is advancing.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced this week that the ramp leading from eastbound Port Street to southbound Corbin Street will close for demolition and reconstruction beginning Sept. 16 at 8 p.m.

That closure is expected to last a year. All vehicular traffic will detour via Marlin and Kellogg streets. The agency said the port complex will remain fully operational during the closure.

The Corbin Street ramp reconstruction is a major component of the Port Street Corridor Improvement Project, which NJBIZ has reported on. The work includes significant upgrades across the port complex’s entire northern entryway. At more than 60 years old, the current ramp will be demolished and rebuilt to modern roadway standards.

The Port Authority said the project will transform the antiquated road network around Port Newark and adjacent Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal. The work will allow for a safer, less congested and more efficient traffic flow into the complex from major roadways.

Setting up for success

The current configuration includes hairpin turns and reduced sightlines. The layout has led to more than 700 crashes between 2005 and 2022. During a typical peak hour, the ramp serves some 3,600 vehicles  — 40% of which is truck traffic.

“This seaport is the beating heart of our region’s economy, and we need its arteries to be as safe, efficient and accessible as possible,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “The Corbin Street ramp closure marks an important step in our investment in the port’s roadway network, as we rebuild these arteries to modern standards and set up the seaport for success as cargo demand grows in the years to come.”

“Reconstructing the Corbin Street ramp marks a significant milestone in our effort to modernize one of the major access points to the East Coast’s busiest port complex,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “Thanks to the Port Authority’s detailed planning and diligence, truckers will use a carefully planned detour that can handle the additional traffic, allowing port operations to continue uninterrupted as we reconstruct the ramp.”

Officials estimate the project will generate 260 additional direct jobs during construction. They note a priority on working with minority, women and local contractors. The Port Authority expects the work to generate $25 million in direct wages and $171 million in regional economic activity.

The Port Street Corridor Improvement Project anticipates completion in 2028.

You can read more about the project and its progress here.

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