List of likely recommendations given
By John Tredrea
The Hopewell Township Committee is expected to vote Monday on a package of recommended changes to the section of Route 31 between I-95 and the Pennington Circle.
If the committee votes in favor of the changes, they would be sent as recommendations to the state Department of Transportation (DOT), which has jurisdiction over the road.
Township Mayor Vanessa Sandom said Tuesday that township officials are still working on the language of the recommendations on which the committee will vote. She said that, at this point, it appears likely the township will recommend the following:
Prohibition of all left-turn movements along Route 31 between I-95 and the Pennington Circle. This prohibition should be implemented using advance-warning technologies, such as electronic signs, to alert motorists effectively.
Improvement of the U-turn capabilities at Bull Run Road with appropriate signs to clearly indicate U-turns are permitted.
Implement a "Safety Corridor" for this roadway segment, under which increased penalties would be meted out to violators of speed limits and other restrictions.
Construction of concrete channelizing islands at major intersections.
Construction of necessary improvements for right turns at major intersections.
Construction of improved signs at traffic signals.
Connect Plymouth Street through to Crest Avenue and Denow Road. Terminate access to Route 31 at Crest Avenue and Orchard Avenue by constructing a cul-de-sac with provision for emergency vehicle access from Route31. This plan was backed by township Engineer Paul Pogorzelski and township police Chief George Meyer during the April 24 Township Committee meeting.
As they have in the past, residents of Plymouth Street opposed it at that meeting, due to the increased traffic it would bring to their street.
Residents of Orchard and Crest avenues continued to support it because, they said, it would significantly increase public safety. Under this plan, the signalized intersection at Denow Road would be the only way on and off Route 31 for Orchard, Crest and Plymouth.
Provide funding for alternative driveway access to lots fronting along Route 31 (e.g. common driveways, alleyways) to eliminate driveways along the east side of Route 31 in the vicinity of Crest Avenue and Orchard Avenue.
Continue planning for long-term improvements to Route 31, especially the Pennington Circle and the pedestrian crossing at Delaware Avenue in Pennington Borough.

