Bill

Bill > S3555


NJ S3555

NJ S3555
Requires DOT to study use of zipper merge method on State roadways.


summary

Introduced
09/12/2024
In Committee
09/12/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires the Department of Transportation (department), within 30 days of the bill's effective date, to commence a year-long study on the usage of the zipper merge method and its effectiveness in reducing congestion and improving traffic flow on roads where construction or infrastructure projects are taking place, causing the closure of one or more lanes. Under the bill, the study is to include, at a minimum: (1) a review of existing research and studies on the zipper merge method conducted by other states or transportation agencies; (2) an evaluation of the feasibility and potential benefits of implementing the zipper merge method on roads where construction or other infrastructure projects are taking place, causing the closure of one or more lanes; (3) an analysis of the impact of the zipper merge method on traffic safety and the potential for reducing accidents and conflicts; and (4) an identification of any necessary infrastructure modifications or signage requirements for the implementation of the zipper merge method. If the study's findings support the implementation of the zipper merge method, the department is required to develop a plan for implementing the zipper merge method on State roadways where construction or infrastructure projects are taking place, causing the closure of one or more lanes. The bill also requires the department to prepare and submit a report to the Governor and the Legislature within six months after completion of the study. The report is to include the study's findings and, if the study's findings support the implementation of the zipper merge method, the plan developed by the department under the bill. The bill defines "zipper merge method" as a method of merging vehicles at a merge point that involves the operators of the merging vehicles: (1) using both lanes of traffic until the vehicles reach the merge point; and (2) once the vehicles reach the merge point, alternating yielding the right-of-way into the single traffic lane. In addition, the bill defines "merge point" as the point at which two traffic lanes merge into one traffic lane.

AI Summary

This bill requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to conduct a year-long study on the usage and effectiveness of the "zipper merge method" in reducing congestion and improving traffic flow on roads where construction or infrastructure projects are taking place, causing the closure of one or more lanes. The study will review existing research, evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of implementing the zipper merge method, analyze its impact on traffic safety, and identify any necessary infrastructure modifications or signage requirements. If the study's findings support the implementation of the zipper merge method, the DOT must develop a plan to implement it on state roadways. The DOT is also required to submit a report to the Governor and the Legislature within six months of completing the study, detailing the findings and the implementation plan.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Transportation Committee (on 09/12/2024)

bill text


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