Maplewood Will Propose New Traffic Restrictions at Valley Street, Baker Street

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Maplewood officials will propose a new traffic restriction at the intersection of Valley Street and Baker Street.

Officials on Tuesday will discuss banning right turns on red for southbound drivers on Valley Street at a township committee meeting.

The proposed change would apply only to motorists traveling south on Valley Street and turning onto Baker Street when the traffic signal is red.

Under the current rule, drivers are able to turn right on red unless a restriction is posted.

The proposed rule changes come after the township hired a traffic consultant —Dynamic Traffic LLC. — to study potential traffic restrictions at the intersection as well as a recommendation from Maplewood's engineering department.

If the ordinance is approved and takes effect, southbound drivers on Valley Street would have to wait for a green signal before turning right onto Baker Street.

After the proposed ordinance is passed, Maplewood officials would still need approval from Essex County for the restriction to go into effect as Valley Street is not owned by the township.

The ordinance directs the township engineer to send a certified copy to the county for consent.

Residents who want to watch Tuesday's meeting can register at this Zoom link.