Turnpike Reopens Near GWB After Emergency Power Line Work [UPDATE]

Update: The northern end of the New Jersey Turnpike has reopened after being closed for more than two hours near the George Washington Bridge during Tuesday's evening rush. 

"The local and express lanes in both directions were closed for more than two hours this evening while a PSE&G crew did emergency work on a power line that crosses the roadway," the Turnpike Authority said in a statement. "Motorists traveling in the area should call 511 from a hands-free cell phone for real-time information about delays on the Turnpike and other affected roadways."

Delays leaving New York City were reported to be at least an hour. Readers were also reporting large crowds at the Port Authority Bus Terminal. 

The commuting nightmare came as many locals were trying to get home to cast their votes. 

First report: 

The New Jersey Turnpike will be closed for about two hours near the George Washington Bridge while utility crews make emergency repairs to a power line in Leonia, officials said Tuesday. 

Express and local lanes will be closed in both directions between Exit 71 in Leonia and the George Washington Bridge, according to a statement issued around 5 p.m. by the Turnpike Authority. 

Northbound Turnpike traffic will be directed onto Interstate 80 westbound. Eastbound I-80 traffic will be directed onto the southbound Turnpike. Southbound traffic crossing the bridge will be diverted onto Routes 4, 1&9 and 46. 

"The Turnpike was closed at approximately 4:30 p.m. and will remain closed until the utility crews have completed the work," the agency said. 

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