$1M In Federal Funds Will Extend Western Boulevard In Berkeley

BERKELEY, NJ — Western Boulevard will receive a “critical” extension thanks to $1 million in federal funding, Rep. Chris Smith announced in a news release.

Smith said that he secured more than $20.8 million in funding for critical infrastructure improvement and humanitarian services projects in Ocean and Monmouth counties.

“These federal dollars will go a long way to provide much-needed relief of significant traffic hazards and gridlock on Route 9 through additional avenues for those traveling throughout the town and surrounding area,” said Smith, who added that he personally secured the funds through his congressional earmarks that were signed into law on Saturday as part of a negotiated budget.

According to the proposed plans, Western Boulevard—which currently dead-ends at Northern Boulevard in Pinewald—would be extended to Gladney Avenues to create a bypass for Route 9 and provide a more direct north to south route than the current alternative through Beachwood.

This extension will also help with the redevelopment of the Beachwood Mall as additional infrastructure will be needed. Related: New Beachwood Mall Site Plans Approved: Here's What's In Store

“The Western Boulevard extension has always been and remains a key component to relieve the current traffic conditions and accommodate the future of the planned Berkeley Town Center One, which will include mixed use of commercial, professional, retail, and residential development to revitalize vacant or under-used properties,” said Smith.

It also will benefit more than just Berkeley.

“This new roadway will have a profound positive improvement on the quality of life for not only the residents of Berkeley but also the many neighboring shore towns of Beachwood Borough, Pine Beach Borough, and Lacey Township,” Smith said.

Smith said the project—which is estimated to cost $1,179,164.80—was well-prepared by former Berkeley Mayor and now State Senator Carmen Amato, Lacey Mayor Timothy McDonald, Beachwood Mayor Ronald Roma Jr., Ocean Gate Mayor Robert Curtin, and the Berkeley Township Police Department’s Traffic Safety Bureau.