Atlantic City Exwy NJ to run westbound only in hurricane emergency

Atlantic City Expressway operating exclusively westbound would be the major evacuation route from the south Jersey shore in case of a hurricane or tidal surge, according to Atlantic County emergency planners.  Normal eastbound lanes are planned to be reversed so both roadways would take vehicles away from the shore to safety further inland.

An array of variable message and portable signs (arrow boards), cones and barricades have been identified for use. Entry ramps would become leftside exit ramps and normal exits would become entries. Police drills have been done.

Evacuation will be improved in several years time by completion of third laning of the westbound roadway, still only 2 lanes for a long 24 mile, 39km section of the expressway from IC7 at the Garden State Parkway and IC31 at NJ73. The eastbound roadway has long been 3-lanes.

Toll collection is suspended in emergencies.

TOLLROADSnews 2009-09-01