New Signal May Help Stop Speeders Near West Caldwell School

WEST CALDWELL, NJ — Here’s the unfortunate truth, according to Essex County Freeholder Len Luciano: drivers speed down Central Avenue in West Caldwell, even though it’s close to a local elementary school.

That’s the reality that spurred a new traffic signal at the intersection of Central Avenue and Washington Avenue/Stonybrook Road, county officials said.

On Thursday, officials announced the new piece of equipment was installed. The effort – which took place in cooperation with the borough of West Caldwell and the school district – will improve pedestrian access and traffic safety in the busy travel corridor near Washington Elementary School.

County officials offered the following details about the new traffic signal:

“The improvements include the installation of new traffic signal equipment with LED lights, which shine brighter, are easier to see and are more energy efficient, and pedestrian signals with countdown timers. The intersection was repaved, and roadway striping and signage were added. Curbs and sidewalks at the intersection that were in poor condition were repaired. What is unique about these signals is the exclusive pedestrian phase, meaning when the pedestrian crosswalk button is pressed, traffic in all directions will receive a red light.”

Officials added:

“Lublanecki Engineering from Long Valley received a $17,495 professional services contract to design the improvements to the intersection. Foggia Trinity Electric from Scotch Plains received a publicly bid contract for $319,640 to perform the construction work. The Essex County Department of Public Works monitored the project to ensure delays were avoided. Essex County and West Caldwell each provided half of the funding. Funding from Essex County came through the Essex County Department of Public Works budget.”

Caldwell-West Caldwell Schools Superintendent James Heinegg offered praise for the new signal.

“The district heard from parents about the need for upgrades at the intersection and we are happy they are completed,” he said.

“Nothing is more important than protecting the safety of our students,” Washington Elementary School Principal Judi Jacobs said. “The installation of the traffic light will make parents and children feel safer.”

West Caldwell Mayor Joseph Tempesta joined with town council members Joseph Cecere, Michael Crudele, Stanley Hladik and Stephen Wolsky at a ceremony to usher in the new signal.

“We heard a great deal of concerns about the safety of this intersection and a traffic signal was the only solution to keep our children safe,” said Tempesta, a Republican. “This is a good example of bipartisan government working together.”

• See related article: When New Jersey Dems, GOP Agree (Going Beyond Blue And Red)

Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr., a Democratic Party member, agreed.

“Making sure our roadways are safe and meet current usage demands by pedestrians and motorists are among our highest priorities,” DiVincenzo said.

Another local Democrat, Essex County Clerk Christopher Durkin, also offered support for the new signal.

“This is a perfect example of how public safety needs are met with proactive government response,” said Durkin, who lives near the intersection.

• See related article: Caldwells Nab $1.3 Million In State Aid For Road Repairs

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