Through the Years - 2000s

The 20th century was one of construction. Modern highways, deep-water ports, railroads, and international airports were built. A vital complex of highways, ports, airports, and bus and rail systems were in place to move goods and people and provide services in the 21st century. The challenge for the new millenium was to renew and sustain the infrastructure, increase mobility options and to make every mode of travel in New Jersey safer, smoother, and smarter.

There were four NJDOT Commissioners that led the Department through the first decade of the 21st century: Jamie Fox, Jack Lettiere, Kris Kolluri and Stephen Dilts.

Jamie Fox 2002	Jack Lettiere 2003 - 2006

Kris Kolluri 2006 - 2008

Stephen Dilts 2008 - 2010

2000:

• The final link of the Route 21 Freeway Extension from Passaic to its connection to Route 46 in Clifton was opened. Completion of this Extension removed traffic from the local roads in the area.

2001:

• A fiery multi-truck accident structurally damaged a four-lane bridge on I-80 westbound closing the road for eight days. A temporary two-lane bridge was constructed to keep traffic moving on I-80 westbound until the four-lane bridge could be repaired and 11 weeks later it was reopened.

2003:

• The Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike merged consolidating two of the largest toll authorities in New Jersey.

2005:

• Using a new 'Hyperbuild' approach, three superstructure bridges were replaced in Trenton: Mulberry Street, Route 1 Freeway and the Olden Avenue Connector. This first Hyperbuild project saved 14 months in time and $1 million in costs for the design.

The 511NJ travel information system began which enabled motorists to obtain real-time traffic and construction information on the phone or from the 511NJ Web site.

• The new state-of-the-art Statewide Traffic Management Center (STMC) opened in Woodbridge. Jointly operated by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, the New Jersey State Police and the New Jesey Turnpike Authority, this center facilitated a faster and more comprehensive response to any situation that may impede the free flow of traffic.

2009:

• The first permanent travel time system was introduced on I-78 from Route 24 in Union County to the New Jersey Turnpike Interchange in Essex County. This system provided motorists with real-time updates and estimated travel times on I-78.
• The $200 million Route 18 Reconstruction Project in New Brunswick was completed.
• The first ever connection ramp linking the Garden State Parkway to I-78 in Union County was opened. This ramp improved traffic flow at the interchange of the two superhighways and reduced traffic on local routes.