I-287 Lane Closures Planned In Morris Township, Long-Term Traffic Shift Coming

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Drivers traveling on Interstate 287 southbound in the greater Morris area should prepare for overnight lane closures Thursday and Friday as crews work on a $17.5 million bridge replacement project, state transportation officials announced.

The closures will take place Thursday and Friday in Hanover and Morris Township, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT).

Beginning at 8 p.m. Thursday, two right lanes on I-287 southbound will close until 6 a.m. Friday while crews remove construction barriers ahead of a planned traffic shift.

At least two lanes will remain open overnight.

Additional closures are scheduled from 8 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Saturday as crews restripe the roadway and install barriers beneath the Hanover Avenue Bridge, between mileposts 37.6 and 37.2.

Work is expected to begin in the two right lanes before shifting to the two left lanes. At least two lanes will remain open throughout the night.

By 6 a.m. Saturday, all southbound lanes are expected to reopen, with traffic shifted toward the right shoulder.

However, the left shoulder will remain closed through spring 2027 to allow crews to repair bridge piers and complete other improvements.

The work is part of a federally funded $17.5 million project to replace the concrete bridge deck on the Hanover Avenue/County Route 650 Bridge over I-287.

The project also includes improvements to drainage, lighting, signage and fencing, along with sidewalk replacements and curb ramp upgrades to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

Construction is expected to be completed in spring 2028.

NJDOT warned motorists to expect delays, slow down, and use caution when traveling through the work zone.

The schedule is subject to change due to weather or other factors.

Drivers can check 511NJ.org for real-time traffic updates and construction information.