Federal Grant Coming to Wayne Township For Road Safety Improvements

Wayne, NJ–– Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) applauded the news Wayne Township will be receiving a $15 million federal grant through North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA)’s FY 2022 Local Safety Program. 

“When we invest in updating our infrastructure, communities flourish. That is why I am proud that $15 million in Federal funding in partnership with the NJTPA’s Local Safety Program is coming to Wayne to improve the safety and use of 30 intersections as well as to install new bike lanes, sidewalks and traffic signals. These improvements will bolster the quality of life for residents and expand access to small businesses. My top priority in Congress is to bring our tax dollars back to serve our local communities and it is great to see that happening here,” said Rep. Sherrill. 

"We’re investing in Wayne's future by improving safety and mobility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians along Valley Road. These critical infrastructure upgrades will enhance daily life for thousands of people in our community and build upon the historic investments Democrats have made in America’s roads, bridges, and tunnels. I'm proud to have helped secure this funding for our district along with my friend and colleague Congresswoman Sherrill,” said Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr.

"My colleagues and I want to thank Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill for securing these important funds. We look forward to the improvements along Valley Road, which will improve safety for our residents and motorists," said Passaic County Commissioner Director Pat Lepore.

“Road safety funding to our region has doubled since 2020, which is a testament to highly successful partnerships among the NJTPA, Passaic County, our municipalities, and Congresswoman Sherrill, whose advocacy in Washington and support for the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is bringing new resources to our region,” said Passaic County Commissioner John W. Bartlett, Chair of the NJTPA and a Wayne resident. “Federal support helps free up local dollars, state aid, and municipal aid, so that New Jersey can continue to upgrade aging infrastructure and keep people safe -- whether they travel by car, bike, foot, or transit.”

“We are extremely pleased that this 15 M federal grant from the NJTPA will transfer Valley Road into a much safer roadway for our pedestrians and the traveling public. It’s encouraging to see the Federal, County and municipal governments work together to solve an obvious problem. I congratulate all those who worked on this grant to make Valley Road safer.” said Wayne Township Mayor Christopher P. Vergano.

“Resolving the dangers of Valley Road has been a top priority for me since taking office as Wayne’s 5th Ward Councilwoman in 2020. I am gratified and relieved that my engaging Passaic County’s Administration early in my first year in office helped lead us to today’s NJTPA award of a $15 million grant to redesign and reconstruct Valley Road. This grant will mitigate the risks that have plagued Valley Road’s drivers and pedestrians for decades,” said Wayne Councilwoman Fran Ritter. “Thank you to Passaic County’s Administration and Board of Commissioners, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, Governor Murphy, NJTPA and its Board President John Bartlett and to Mayor Vergano for your collective support to make Valley Road safer for all. This accomplishment is a testament to the benefits of teamwork across multiple levels of government."

With this federal grant, Wayne Township will be able to make significant improvements along  3.22 miles of Valley Road, from French Hill Road to Hamburg Turnpike. These upgrades will encompass 30 intersections with the intention of improving driver, cyclist, and pedestrian safety. The township will build new sidewalks, bicycle lanes, traffic signals, and upgrade pedestrian signals. This grant will fund initial engineering, final design, construction, and inspection services for the entire project. 

###