Traffic Upgrade Near School In The Caldwells ‘Checks The Box’

NORTH CALDWELL, NJ — New traffic signals and intersection improvements in front of Gould Avenue Elementary School in North Caldwell have crossed the finish line, Essex County officials recently announced.

Here’s what to know about the project, according to a statement from the county:

“A 2023 study completed by the Essex County Department of Public Works determined traffic signals were needed at the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Gould Avenue/Knollwood Drive in North Caldwell. At this intersection is Gould Avenue Elementary School and St. Anthony of Padua Church. New traffic signals equipped with LED lights were installed along with high visibility crosswalks, pedestrian signals with countdown timers and push buttons with feedback. The signals also are equipped with GPS clocks to coordinate the timing of the lights with other signalized intersections.”

Dynamic Engineering of Lake Como received a $40,000 contract to design the intersection upgrades. JC Contracting from Rahway received a publicly bid contract for $627,663 to perform the construction work. Essex County and North Caldwell entered into a shared services agreement to each pay 50 percent of the project.

“I am pleased to work with North Caldwell to install traffic signals at the intersection in front of Gould Elementary School,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said.

“This will make it safer for student and parents going to and from the school,” DiVincenzo said.

The traffic improvements got a thumbs-up from North Caldwell Mayor Josh Ramond, who was joined by council members Anthony Floria-Callori, Johanna Stoever, Kenneth Tiltono and Stephen Weinstein at a ribbon cutting event last week.

“Upgrades like this are so vitally important to the safety of our children and residents,” Ramond said. “To be able to walk across Mountain Avenue more safely is a wonderful addition.”

Gould Elementary School Principal Chris Checchetto said the improvements “check that box” when it comes to student safety.

Two members of the Essex County Board of Commissioners also cheered for the improvements.

“This project is more than just installing a new traffic signal,” Brendan Gill said. “We are talking about enhancing public safety and improving pedestrian access to the school.”

“This is a significant upgrade to the community because if involves enhancing safety for our school children,” Len Luciano agreed.

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