Morris Leader

Morris County's infrastructure and transportation priorities were discussed at a recent Government Affairs Forum. The event featured Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Assemblyman Christian Barranco, held by the Morris County Chamber of Commerce at Tilcon’s office in Parsippany.

This forum is part of the Chamber’s monthly Public Policy Series, focusing on infrastructure investment, long-term transportation planning, and public safety improvements. Deputy Director Shaw explained the county's infrastructure responsibilities and the role of the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) in funding local projects. Assemblyman Barranco shared insights on state-level initiatives and proposals from the governor.

“The county oversees 287 miles of roads spanning 39 municipalities, 1,000 bridges and culverts, and three freight railroads, in addition to other infrastructure assets. Each year, we resurface about ten percent of our roadway network, replace critical bridges and culverts and improve intersections -- all while facing rising costs and stagnant state funding. Our paving costs, for example, have nearly doubled since I began serving as a commissioner in 2019,” said Deputy Director Shaw.

The county’s 2025 Capital Spending Plan includes $11 million for road resurfacing across 11 municipalities. Additionally, $8.58 million is allocated for bridge replacements in Montville, Mount Olive, and Jefferson Township. Other improvements include intersection upgrades in East Hanover and Boonton with a budget of $2.56 million.

The NJTPA supports Morris County’s projects with an annual budget exceeding $3 billion through its Transportation Improvement Program. It has also contributed to expanding the Morris Canal Greenway and funding the Pompton Valley Rail Trail set to open this spring.

“The NJTPA is a key partner in securing federal funding for Morris County’s infrastructure," said Deputy Director Shaw.

The Local Safety Action Plan (LSAP) was also discussed as it positions Morris County to compete for over $5 billion in federal funding for high-risk intersections. Assemblyman Barranco acknowledged challenges but supports programs like LSAP.

“While the Target Zero initiative sets an ambitious goal...I strongly support programs like the LSAP,” Asm. Barranco said.

The LSAP will be completed by June 2025 with a public meeting scheduled for April 2025 to gather feedback.

Morris County collaborates with NJTPA on its Long-Range Transportation Plan “Connecting Communities.” Public input is encouraged via an online survey at njtpa.org/connecting with virtual events on March 3 and March 25.

Moderated by Chamber Committee Co-Chairs Sal Anderton and Rosalie Serapiglia with partnership from New Jersey Business Association Chair Alan Zakin; Meghan Hunscher welcomed guests including Clerk Ann Grossi and State Sen. Anthony Bucco who updated efforts on Route 80 sinkholes.

For more information visit morriscountynj.gov or njtpa.org.