Cherry Hill Mayor Dave Fleisher has expressed frustration over what he perceives as the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s (NJDOT) inadequate communication regarding the Route 70 reconstruction project. The $153 million state-funded initiative aims to reconstruct nearly 9 miles of Route 70, impacting Cherry Hill significantly with temporary road closures and traffic shifts.
Commencing in September 2021, the project is anticipated to continue until early 2027. Mayor Fleisher voiced his dissatisfaction at a recent Township Council meeting, particularly focusing on the lack of effective communication with local small businesses and neighboring communities about lane closures and shifts.
“At this point, I am dissatisfied with the state’s handling of the project so far, particularly with communication to local small businesses and the adjoining neighborhoods,” Mayor Fleisher stated.
Acknowledging the concerns, NJDOT emphasizes that it is committed to addressing the challenges posed by the construction and improving communication with the community. A spokesperson for NJDOT revealed that the agency met with local officials in Cherry Hill to discuss stage changes, signage concerns, and ways to enhance communication.
The spokesperson stated, “We will continue to remain in close contact with Cherry Hill officials, and the project team is working quickly to address concerns regarding business impacts.”
Residents and stakeholders can access traffic updates related to the Route 70 construction through public advisories, social media platforms, and real-time alerts. NJDOT encourages the community to stay informed by visiting the project’s webpage and following NJDOT on Facebook and Twitter. Construction notices and traffic advisories are regularly issued and shared with local officials in impacted municipalities.
Given the dynamic nature of the construction, NJDOT advises checking the traffic-information website, 511nj.org, for real-time updates and travel information. The agency remains open to meetings with local officials to discuss any potential impacts caused by the project, aiming for improved collaboration and transparency with the Cherry Hill community.
