Tuesday, July 15, 2003

Pinelands Commission Approves Key County Intersection in EHT

Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson announced today that the county received formal approval from the New Jersey Pinelands Commission on its application for the reconstruction of the intersection of Mill Road and Spruce Avenue in Egg Harbor Township.

Levinson stated that he is pleased that this important highway improvement can now begin to move toward construction. "On occasion it can be frustrating to know that certain highway improvements are badly needed and yet can be delayed and rendered more expensive by the environmental permitting process. In this instance Pinelands staff worked very effectively with our planning staff so that permitting would not take any longer than absolutely necessary." Levinson said.

The county intends to expand the width of roadways at this intersection which is located in one of Atlantic County's major growth areas. Mill Road will be reconstructed for approximately 680 feet east and 995 feet west of the intersection, while Spruce Avenue will be reconstructed for approximately 1,150 feet south of the intersection.

"This is a very complicated project," Levinson said. "There were many extraordinary factors that had to be taken into consideration such as roadway alignment issues, the presence of extensive wetlands, and environmentally sensitive areas. It took a lot of coordination with outside agencies to design this roadway so that it improved highway safety in an environmentally responsible manner. I would like to compliment our planning staff and the staff of the Pinelands Commission for their hard work on this project."

Levinson stated now that the Pinelands Commission approval has been received, the county can begin acquiring the remaining right of way that is needed and put the construction of this project out to bid this fall.

For more information contact Howard J. Kyle, Chief of Staff, at 343-2223.

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