Crosswalk Restriping Finished Ahead Of Schedule In West Orange

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Dozens of crosswalks in the Watchung Heights section of West Orange were recently resurfaced – with the work crossing the finish line ahead of schedule, town officials say.

According to a news release from the township, striping work was completed April 10 for 73 crosswalks at 33 intersections. These crosswalks include Franklin Avenue, Samuel Street, Whittlesey Avenue, Watson Avenue, Washington Street, John Street, Ridge Avenue, Mississippi Avenue, Harrison Avenue, Cherry Street, Chestnut Street, Elm Street, Maple Street, Kirk Street and Seward Street.

Parents of children attending Washington Street School and Edison Central Six had been anticipating the resurfacing project, which was completed ahead of schedule, the township’s release noted:

“Funding for the project in the Watchung Heights section of Town had been previously allocated for in the Township’s 2023 capital budget. The work was expected to take place later this summer. However, the pendulum of fate swung in a more favorable direction advancing the timeline and lowering the project cost. Last month the Township Engineering Department received a call from Statewide Striping who had an unexpected cancellation for work. This created an opening in the contractor’s schedule, and they were looking to keep their crews working. Statewide offered a highly discounted price that was 10% less than the projected cost that was determined if using the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council. MCCPC has widespread recognition in the industry as a reputable organization based in Randolph, NJ, dedicated to providing bid contract pricing.”

Officials continued:

“The Township was subsequently able to take advantage of the discount offered by Statewide Striping. The unique circumstances were presented to the Township Council who acted quickly in the best interest of taxpayers. Their cooperation was crucial in helping Township Engineer Carballo along with the assistance of the Department of Public Works and West Orange Police Department staff coordinate the replacement of faded traffic markings to take advantage of the discount for services. It saved money for the Township but more importantly helped move an important safety initiative forward and ahead of schedule.”

While the recent traffic improvements are nice, they are no substitute for being a courteous and safe driver, the news release added.

“Motorists are reminded that the real safety of children walking to school relies on them staying alert while driving and always yielding to pedestrians in the crosswalk,” it said.

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