2 Busy Bloomfield Intersections Get New Traffic Signals Installed

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Two of the busiest intersections in Bloomfield just got a much-needed traffic safety upgrade, officials say.

On Friday, Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. announced that new traffic signal equipment was installed at the intersections of Bloomfield Avenue and Municipal Plaza, and Bloomfield Avenue and Grove Street.

The improvements are part of a $6 million project to upgrade nine intersections throughout Essex County, officials said.

According to a statement from the county:

“The equipment includes LED traffic signals, modern poles, high visibility crosswalks and roadway striping, and pedestrian countdown timers that can be activated by pushing the crossing button. LED lights are brighter, easier to see, more energy efficient and last longer than traditional bulbs. Sidewalks and curbs around the intersections were replaced and the intersections were repaved. The signals also are outfitted with GPS clocks to ensure they remain coordinated with other traffic signals along Park Avenue. An added feature on Municipal Plaza is a dedicated left turn signal onto Bloomfield Avenue.”

County officials continued:

“NV5 from Parsippany received a professional services contract for $179,808 to design the upgrades at all locations. Assuncao Brothers, Inc. from Edison was awarded a publicly bid contract for $4,825,659 to perform the construction work. Dewberry Engineers from Bloomfield was awarded a $998,349 contract to provide construction engineering services. The design, construction and construction inspection for each intersection cost about $666,000. Essex County received a grant from the Federal Local Safety Program (LSP) to fund the project. The Essex County Department of Public Works monitored the project to answer question and avoid delays from occurring.”

“This is one of the busiest intersections in Bloomfield,” said Mayor Michael Venezia, who was joined by council members Rick Rockwell and Jenny Mundell.

“I am particularly pleased with the dedicated left turn signal from Municipal Plaza onto Bloomfield Avenue because that will eliminate much of the congestion,” Venezia added.

Commissioner Brendan Gill said the upgrades are examples of the type of project that will help the county to continue the “renaissance started in Bloomfield.”

“This is a very busy intersection, and I applaud this project for improving the safety for pedestrians and motorists,” Commissioner Patricia Sebold agreed.

DiVincenzo said both of the intersections are located in Bloomfield’s Downtown District, and are among the busiest in the county.

“Making sure they are up to date and functioning property contribute to the vibrancy of the business district, and will ensure pedestrians and motorists can pass through safely,” he said.

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