New Jersey is notorious for its congested highways, pothole-ridden streets, and confusing interchanges. Ask any resident, and they’ll have a long list of roads they despise navigating.
From bumper-to-bumper traffic to constant construction delays, these roads are a daily frustration for drivers. Based on local opinions, here are the most hated roads in New Jersey and why they make driving a nightmare.
1. The Garden State Parkway
One of the busiest highways in the state, the Garden State Parkway is infamous for its tolls, congestion, and aggressive drivers. Stretching from the northern border near New York all the way down to Cape May, this road sees heavy commuter traffic, especially around exits near major cities.
Frequent accidents and ongoing construction projects add to the stress of driving here.
2. The New Jersey Turnpike
Perhaps the most infamous road in New Jersey, the Turnpike is known for its heavy truck traffic, expensive tolls, and unpredictable congestion. Spanning from the George Washington Bridge down to Delaware, this highway is essential for commuters but often leaves drivers frustrated due to long delays, reckless drivers, and confusing lane changes.
3. Route 22
Route 22 is one of the most complained-about roads in New Jersey. Located in Central Jersey, this highway is notorious for its poorly designed jughandles, inconsistent speed limits, and high number of traffic lights. Many drivers also report that merging onto the road can be dangerous due to limited visibility and high-speed traffic.
4. Route 17
Northern New Jersey drivers know the struggles of Route 17 all too well. This road is packed with shopping centers, making traffic a nightmare on weekends and holidays. Poorly placed exits, inconsistent speed limits, and impatient drivers only add to the chaos, making Route 17 one of the most frustrating roads in the state.
5. Route 130
Route 130 has earned a reputation for being one of the most dangerous roads in New Jersey, particularly for pedestrians. With high-speed traffic, frequent intersections, and a high number of accidents, many residents avoid driving on this road if possible. Poor road conditions and limited visibility at night only add to the dangers of Route 130.
6. Route 1 & 9
Serving as a major thoroughfare for commuters and truckers, Route 1 & 9 is known for its endless traffic lights, heavy congestion, and frequent roadwork. The stretch near Newark and Jersey City is particularly infamous for bumper-to-bumper traffic, making it one of the least favorite roads among New Jersey drivers.
7. Route 280
Route 280 is a key highway for drivers traveling between Newark and western New Jersey. However, residents often complain about its outdated design, steep hills, and dangerous curves. The unpredictable traffic patterns and high accident rates make this road one of the least favorite among commuters.
8. Route 3
Route 3 is a crucial link between the Meadowlands and New York City, but it is also one of the most congested roads in the state. With frequent accidents, roadwork, and unpredictable rush hour delays, many drivers find themselves stuck in gridlock on a regular basis.
The intersections near Secaucus and Clifton are particularly notorious for causing major backups.
Why Do New Jersey Roads Get So Much Hate?
Several factors contribute to the widespread frustration among New Jersey drivers. Some of the biggest complaints include:
- Traffic Congestion: New Jersey has one of the highest population densities in the U.S., leading to unavoidable congestion on most highways.
- Poor Road Conditions: Many roads suffer from potholes, uneven pavement, and constant construction projects that never seem to end.
- Aggressive Drivers: The state has a reputation for aggressive driving, with many motorists ignoring speed limits, cutting off others, and honking impatiently.
- Confusing Exits and Jughandles: Unlike most states, New Jersey uses jughandles for left turns, which often confuses non-residents and adds to congestion.
How to Avoid the Worst Roads in New Jersey
While some roads are impossible to avoid, there are ways to minimize stress while driving in New Jersey:
- Use Traffic Apps: Apps like Waze and Google Maps provide real-time traffic updates and suggest alternative routes.
- Plan Around Rush Hour: Try to avoid peak traffic times in the morning and evening to reduce the chances of getting stuck in congestion.
- Take Public Transit: In areas where it’s available, trains and buses can be a stress-free alternative to driving.
Conclusion
New Jersey’s roadways are among the most frustrating in the country, with congestion, confusing traffic patterns, and poor road conditions making everyday driving a challenge. Whether it’s the overcrowded Turnpike or the chaotic Route 22, residents have plenty to complain about.
While avoiding these roads altogether may not be possible, using smart driving strategies can help make the experience a little less stressful.
For more details on New Jersey road conditions and traffic updates, visit New Jersey Department of Transportation.
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