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Council discusses NJDOT Municipal Aid application for Sunset Street safety improvements
Summary
Town Manager Adam Brewer briefed the council on a proposed NJDOT Municipal Aid application for multi‑phase work on Sunset Street, including intersection narrowing near the high school; council members expressed support for pedestrian-safety goals but raised concerns about mandatory DOT curbing/guardrail, maintenance and requested Traffic Division review.
The Pequannock Township manager outlined a proposed 2024 NJDOT Municipal Aid grant application to fund safety and street improvements on Sunset Street and nearby legs, and council members discussed tradeoffs between pedestrian safety and local impacts.
Town Manager Adam Brewer summarized a three‑phase project proposal that includes narrowing certain intersections—notably two intersections near the high school—adding pedestrian enhancements, and converting a small dead‑end island into a landscaped peninsula. Brewer said the application targets pedestrian safety by tightening turning radii and defining turning lanes to slow vehicle speeds.
Brewer warned council members that if DOT funds the project, the work must meet DOT specifications and may require the installation or replacement of guide rail/curbing in sections where the grade from road to ditch triggers DOT standards. “If it is required then it would have to be put in,” he said, adding that accepting DOT money can bring additional design obligations.
Council members and residents raised concerns. One council member said narrowing the intersection directly across from the high‑school gym was “problematic” for pedestrians and cyclists if new curbing reduces available unpaved shoulder. Another councillor and a resident urged the council to have the Police Department Traffic Division review the sketches because the area is directly across from the high school and attracts many pedestrians.
Councilman Cole said he supported pursuing the grant “especially around the high school,” while emphasizing caution further up Sunset if impacts to driveway access or walkability increase. A recommendation emerged to seek Traffic Division sign‑off or comment before the township submits the application.
Why it matters: DOT funding could finance pedestrian safety upgrades that slow traffic near the high school, but accepting state design standards can require additional work (curbs, guardrails) that would alter street width and maintenance responsibilities; the council must weigh improved safety against local impacts.
What’s next: Council members asked staff to obtain review/comments from the Police Department Traffic Division and to continue discussion at a future meeting before finalizing an application submission.
