Traffic Safety Improvements
The intersection of County Route 523 and 629 has long been a topic of discussion concerning traffic safety. The number of accidents at the intersection is statistically higher than other intersection in Readington Township. Township officials met with Hunterdon County representatives to discuss the intersection and what could be done to improve safety. Long term solutions are in the investigative stages, but a short term solution was discussed and agreed upon. During the meeting it was decided that electron speed signs may help in slowing the speed of vehicles approaching the intersection.
Each sign is equipped with wireless technology. This allows for quick and secure downloads from the sign to a computer. A built in traffic counter stores information regarding vehicle data such as the number of cars, minimum, maximum and average speeds. This data is then transmitted to a computer to allow for review and analysis. In addition to gathering data the signs give police the ability to customize the message being displayed. The digital signs are located as you approach the intersection and gives motorist instant feedback for example they can warn motorist they are driving too fast or give positive feedback to drivers who are within the speed limit.
The implementation of this project was a combined effort between county officials, local officials, volunteers and a local business. Readington Township paid for the signs, Hunterdon County provided the manpower and assisted with installation, Readington Volunteer Fire Company supplied their ladder truck to assist in the installation, and when the solar panels needed to be repositioned ACE Electric from Whitehouse took care of the task.