Metuchen's Grove Avenue Bridge To Close For $10M Reconstruction

METUCHEN, NJ — Grove Avenue in Metuchen will close in both directions over the Port Reading Railroad bridge beginning late June 25, as Middlesex County advances a $10 million federally funded bridge replacement project, NJ DOT said.

The closure runs from 11:59 p.m. June 25 through 11:59 p.m. Sept. 6 to allow crews to demolish and reconstruct the bridge using a precast structure and Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques. The bridge, built in 1900, is in poor condition. A temporary pedestrian bridge will be maintained throughout construction.

Detours will be in place for the duration of the closure:

Northbound motorists on Grove Avenue should turn left onto Middlesex Avenue/Route 27, right onto Central Avenue/Plainfield Avenue (CR 661), and right onto Oak Tree Road back to Grove Avenue.

Southbound motorists should turn right onto Oak Tree Road, left onto Plainfield Avenue/CR 661/Central Avenue, and left onto Middlesex Avenue/Route 27 back to Grove Avenue.

The timing of the closure was coordinated with Metuchen High School, which is adjacent to the bridge, to avoid disruption during the school year. The new bridge will feature a reinforced concrete deck and maintain the same lane configuration. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2027.

Motorists can check 511nj.org for real-time construction updates.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com