Morris Township Bridge Project Finishes Weeks Ahead Of Schedule

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ — Morris Township drivers can once again use Gaston Road after Morris County completed a bridge replacement project and fully reopened the road, according to the county. The county said the work finished about three weeks ahead of schedule and within the project budget.

Construction on the Gaston Road Bridge began on March 2, and closed the road to through traffic between Washington Valley Road and Sussex Turnpike. The bridge is located about midway along Gaston Road, a one-mile roadway that connects those two roads in Morris Township.

The county-funded project replaced an aging concrete slab bridge that spans a tributary of the Whippany River. According to the county, the structure had deteriorated despite multiple repairs, making full replacement the most practical and cost-effective solution.

The new bridge includes a four-sided precast concrete culvert, stone-faced walls, and a white picket-style railing designed to fit the surrounding area. The county said the roadway width across the structure was expanded to 26 feet, creating two 13-foot travel lanes intended to improve traffic flow and safety.

“This project reflects Morris County’s continued commitment to investing in reliable infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to residents whenever possible,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw. “Completing this bridge replacement ahead of schedule is a credit to the coordination between county engineers, our contractor and local officials, and we appreciate the patience of residents and motorists throughout construction.”

Gaston Road serves as an important local connector for residents and motorists traveling through the area, according to the county. The closure affected through traffic between Washington Valley Road and Sussex Turnpike while work was underway.

The project was completed by CMS Construction, Inc. of Plainfield, N.J. The county said the work was finished within the county-funded project budget of $641,487.

With the bridge now open, traffic can again move across the full stretch of Gaston Road.