Monmouth County officials are developing a plan to improve an intersection at the border of Freehold and Millstone townships.
The “V” intersection where Route 524 (Stagecoach Road) meets Route 537 (Monmouth Road) is expected to be redesigned and improved according to a plan being developed for the Monmouth County Board of Freeholders. Both roads are under the county’s jurisdiction and the intersection is controlled by a stop sign.
The steady flow of vehicles heading east and west on Route 537 and the alignment of the intersection makes it difficult at certain times for motorists who are traveling on Route 524 and reach Route 537 to turn left toward Freehold Borough or right toward Jackson.
On March 8, the freeholders passed a resolution authorizing the acquisition of right-of-way for the construction of the intersection improvements. The resolution authorizes any and all required right-of-way acquisition activities, including the exercise of eminent domain.
The freeholders said the improvements at Route 537 and Route 524 are needed and the proposed construction of the improvements will require the acquisition of approximately two fee simple parcels and one temporary easement. The freeholders have appropriated $50,000 for costs associated with the acquisitions.
In commenting on the project, Freeholder Tom Arnone said, “The county identified this intersection for safety improvements which include geometric modifications and sight distance improvements. The preliminary design being developed will eliminate the acute angle that Route 524 (Stagecoach Road) intersects Route 537. It is being proposed that Stagecoach Road will be realigned to form a more perpendicular angle with Route 537.
“The new intersection will remain stop controlled; a traffic signal was not warranted at this location. It is the county’s intention to begin construction this summer, however, the construction timeline is dependent upon the county’s ability to secure the necessary right-of-way parcels from the property owner at the northwest quadrant of the intersection and to obtain a soil erosion permit,” Arnone said.
