Ocean County Leader

Lacey Township is set to benefit from a $6 million federal funding allocation secured by Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) for a significant extension to Railroad Avenue. The extension aims to alleviate traffic congestion along Route 9 and enhance mobility for residents in the area.

Rep. Smith emphasized the necessity of the project, stating, “During peak travel time, the Route 9 corridor in Lacey Township develops heavily, leaving no alternative paths to travel to other parts of the town or its neighboring communities.”

Highlighting the broader impact of the extension, Smith added, “The extension of Railroad Avenue will not only ease the flow of traffic within Lacey Township but will also improve safety conditions for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.”

The project's scope, estimated at $6,119,345, entails the construction of a new two-lane limited access parallel to Route 9, spanning from Lacey Road South to Station Drive and from Musket Drive North to South Street. Additionally, the new roadway will feature a multiuse path, the Barnegat Branch Rail Trail, as part of a collaborative effort between Lacey and Ocean County.

In addressing critical infrastructure needs, Smith highlighted, “The project will allow Lacey Township to promptly respond to facilitating a new construction of drainage swales, stormwater piping, and an infiltration basin to help correct flooding during rainstorms and make traveling alongside Route 9 in bad weather safer and more efficient.”

Acknowledging the local support and collaboration, Smith credited, “Committeeman Tim McDonald, Mayor Peggy Sue Juliano and their team in Lacey helped make the case, and I look forward to working with them through the completion of the project.”

The funding secured by Rep. Smith is poised to make a significant impact in enhancing transportation infrastructure and ensuring safer, more efficient travel for residents in Lacey Township and the surrounding areas.