Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is this bridge study necessary?

  Most of the steel girders have significant deterioration at the ends of the girders. Due to its age and ongoing deterioration many of the steel girders are being supported by supplementary supports. The structure has been rated in Fair Condition. Ongoing maintenance is required to retard further deterioration.

• What is a Local Concept Development (LCD) study?

  The LCD study is the first phase for federally funded transportation improvement projects. The LCD study phase includes data collection; coordination with local municipal officials, project stakeholders, and federal and state permitting agencies; public outreach; the development of a reasonable number of sensible and practical conceptual alternatives; and the recommendation of a Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA).

• What kind of a bridge is the Meadowlands Parkway Bridge?

  The existing structure is a steel multi-girder bridge supported by reinforced concrete substructure units founded on steel pipe piles. The bridge was originally constructed in the 1973 and has undergone rehabilitations in 2005 and 2016. Due to its age, the bridge has moderate to significant deterioration to the superstructure and the substructure. The structure has been rated in Fair Condition.

• What is the existing condition of the bridge?

  Due to its age, steel girders and concrete substructure have moderate to significant deterioration. The structure has been rated in Fair Condition.

• How will the project benefit pedestrians and bicyclists?

  As part of the study, the Project Team is asking for input from the local officials and community stakeholders to understand what pedestrian and bicycle mobility and access is needed. As part of the LCD study phase, when developing the project purpose and need for improvements, all modes of transportation will be taken into consideration.

• Have the project's improvements been decided?

  The reason for this study is to identify the current transportation issues and needs regarding the Meadowlands Parkway Bridge. The project is currently in the LCD phase to identify the needs, develop alternatives and determine a Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA) for bridge improvements. Hudson County and cooperating agencies will continue to seek community input on the design and proposed transportation improvements during the LCD phase and future phases of the project.

• How much will it cost and who will pay for it?

  The cost of the LCD study is funded with Federal dollars. There is no estimated cost of the design and construction of the project since the Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA) has not been determined.

• How will the project affect the environment?

  Federally funded projects require environmental screening that follows the National Environmental Policy Act process (NEPA) to establish existing socioeconomic and environmental conditions and weigh the potential impacts that may be caused by the range of alternatives under consideration. Federal and state regulations require a careful assessment of potential environmental impacts and identification of mitigation or avoidance strategies that may be considered. Environmental resources include air, noise, hazardous or contaminated sites, parks, wetlands, water resources, ecological resources, threatened and endangered species, social and economic impacts and cultural resources such as historic structures and facilities.

• Why get involved?

  Your input is important to every phase of the study. The Project Team will collect information such as how the local community uses the bridge, any current traffic problems and how the public sees alternative solutions. Community outreach during the planning stages is a vital part of the LCD process and we encourage the community to follow, participate and help make sure every potential effective element has been considered and examined for its viability.

• Why attend the public meetings?

  Public meetings are a good way to make your voice heard. At public meetings, the study team will be present to answer your questions. If you are unable to attend a meeting, you can stay up to date on project developments by visiting this website and reviewing the meeting minutes and PowerPoint presentation.

• What is the schedule for the Meadowlands Parkway Bridge LCD study?
  • Local Officials Briefing: March 2020
  • Community Stakeholders Meeting: April 2020
  • Public Information Center: April 2020
  • Local Officials Briefing: September 2020
  • Community Stakeholders Meeting: October 2020
  • Public Information Center: October 2020
  • Local Officials Briefing: TBD
• How can I stay informed, ask questions, or offer suggestions?

  The Project Team is committed to keeping the public informed throughout the Meadowlands Parkway Bridge LCD study. Our aim is to keep you up to date on the project and respond to your questions and concerns. You can stay up to date on project developments by visiting this website and reviewing the meeting minutes and meeting presentations.

  We encourage community members to voice their concerns and contribute suggestions. For questions or comments, contact the Community Involvement Facilitator, Nicole Pace-Addeo, via email at npace@stokescg.com for more info.