You Can Now Drive On The Rt. 1 Shoulder In South Brunswick

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — If you commute on Rt. 1 through South Brunswick then you probably know all about the controversial "shoulder running" program the state Dept. of Transportation started in late June — where cars are allowed to travel on the shoulder of Rt. 1 during rush hour.

Well, the program was so successful the DOT is now extending it. Cars were first only allowed to drive on the shoulder of Rt. 1 from Independence Way to Raymond Road. On Friday, the DOT announced shoulder running will be extended a half mile north of Raymond Road and will begin at Promenade Boulevard in the southbound direction.

The changes took effect at 6 a.m. today, Monday, Aug. 28. Cars can only use the shoulder as a travel lane Monday through Friday between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Use of the shoulder will be restricted at all other times. Trucks are not permitted to drive in the shoulder.

Shoulder running is somewhat controversial because some people say it can cause accidents, as people aren't used to looking out for drivers in the shoulder.

But the state DOT counters that the program has been wildly successful, resulting in less congestion in South Brunswick during the morning and evening commutes. The DOT says it has tracked cars and vehicles are getting through South Brunswick Twp. faster.

Rt. 1 shoulder running is a pilot program, which was designed to last six months, which may be extended as well. The DOT said they may make it permanent.

Past Patch coverage: Starting Monday, You Can Drive On The Rt. 1 Shoulder

Image: Morguefile