Dr. Ali Houshmand, President of Rowan University, welcomed more than 100 business leaders and elected officials to the Southern New Jersey Development Council’s (SNJDC) Public Policy Speaker Series featuring NJ Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Commissioner Francis O’Connor.
Commissioner O’Connor, appointed in June 2024, began his presentation with a background of his time at the NJ DOT. “I’ve spent a lot of time in South Jersey since I’ve stepped into this role, and I’m thrilled to create a better transportation network for all and improve infrastructure throughout the region.”
O’Connor highlighted the significant progress the NJDOT has made this record fiscal year, awarding 115 construction contracts at a total of $1.245 billion dollars to improve quality of life for travelers in NJ. He also noted the allocation of $82 million in municipal, urban, and county aid in several South Jersey counties, as well as $10 million in freight impact grants and $9 million to support bikeway programs.
One focal point O’Connor discussed was the Route 322 bypass project, which is nearing the end of concept development. This project aims to improve pedestrian conditions by moving motorists off the roadway, which traverses right through the heart of Rowan University’s campus. Additionally, he provided updates on the I-295 direct connection progress being made to re-build Wall 22. Pile drive work has been split into two locations to support concrete slabs, and construction is expected to start this fall and continue into summer of 2025.
O’Connor also discussed upcoming South Jersey t
ransportation projects, including the re-building of the Route 130 Bridge over Big Timber Creek, expected to be completed by summer 2028. The rebuild will improve safety conditions and provide ADA compliant sidewalks and curbs, as well as the installation of navigational lights and flooding improvements. He also detailed the department’s first design-build program for the Route 50 Bridge in Upper Township in Cape May County.
Regarding clean energy in New Jersey, O’Connor emphasized NJDOT’s commitment to installing electric vehicle chargers statewide, stating they are on track with New Jersey’s intent to provide corridor chargers every 25 miles along main roadways. He also provided an update on the Glassboro Camden Light Rail, now in preliminary design by NJ Transit.
Lastly, O’Connor discussed the cashless toll systems being installed throughout the state to reduce congestion and environmental impact, with the Egg Harbor and Pleasantville Plazas still on track for demolition and replacement with electronic license plate readers by 2025.
Photography and videography courtesy of Stokes Creative Group!
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