The New Jersey Turnpike Authority is planning a major rebuild of the Garden State Parkway between Exits 80 and 83 in the Toms River area, including a relocated southbound Exit 81 ramp, new local "collector-distributor" lanes and new ramps at Exit 80. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, so nothing changes on your drive yet, but it's worth knowing what's coming and planning ahead.
I'm Anthony Abbatiello, an Allstate agent in Manchester. Plenty of my neighbors in Manchester, Whiting and Toms River use Exit 82 at Route 37 every day, so this project will touch a lot of local commutes. Here's what's been announced so far, in plain English.
What's changing between Exits 80 and 83
According to the NJ Turnpike Authority's project page, the improvements are designed to reduce travel times and improve safety in a corridor with high crash rates and high traffic volumes. The project runs through Beachwood, South Toms River, Berkeley and Toms River. The main pieces are listed below.
- Exit 80 gets full access. A new southbound entrance ramp and a new northbound exit ramp will connect the Parkway and local roads. Jersey Shore Online reports the northbound exit will lead to Route 9 South and the southbound entrance will come from Double Trouble Road.
- Southbound Exit 81 moves. NJTA says the southbound Exit 81 ramp will be relocated. News 12 New Jersey notes today's ramp is steep and sharp with a posted 15 mph limit, and that it will be replaced with a new ramp and a traffic signal.
- Collector-distributor roads. New northbound and southbound local lanes will serve Exits 81, 82 and 82A, separating drivers getting on and off from through traffic.
- Wider lanes and shoulders. NJTA says the work will provide 12-foot travel lanes and 12-foot left and right shoulders.
Jersey Shore Online also reports that the Lakehurst Road bridge over the Parkway will be replaced, with the new bridge built slightly north so the old one stays open until the new one is ready. The Park and Ride there will be closed during reconstruction.
Your exit numbers will change
This is the one that will confuse visitors and GPS apps for a while. At the September public hearing, officials explained that because Exits 81, 82 and 82A will all be reached from the new collector-distributor road, they'll be renumbered as 82A, 82B and 82C, according to Jersey Shore Online. If you give directions to your house or business by exit number, keep that in mind down the road.
When will this happen?
NJTA says the project is in final design and construction is expected to begin in 2027. News 12 reports work is expected to wrap up in 2034. Jersey Shore Online reports the first phase, which includes the Lakehurst Road bridge, the relocated southbound Exit 81 ramp and widening north of Exit 82, is expected from 2027 to 2030, with the second phase lasting about four more years.
NJTA Executive Director Kris Kolluri told News 12 that from 2023 to 2025 the stretch saw five fatalities and more than 300 injuries, and that much of the work can be done overnight and off the main highway. Specific detours and lane closures haven't been announced yet, so I'll share updates as they're posted.
If you'd like to weigh in, Jersey Shore Online reports written comments are being accepted through Monday, November 16, at HighwayDesign@njta.gov.
How to plan your route
Even before construction starts, a few habits will make the transition easier.
- Check 511NJ before you leave. 511NJ posts real-time lane and ramp closures across the state.
- Know a backup route. If you normally use Exit 82 for Route 37, think about how you'd get home using Route 9 or another interchange if a ramp is closed overnight.
- Update your mental map. When the new exit numbers arrive, your navigation app may lag behind the signs. Follow the posted signs.
- Give yourself extra time in summer. Shore traffic through this stretch is already heavy, and work zones can add delays.
Driving safely through work zones
The NJDOT work zone safety page reminds drivers that reducing your speed reduces the risk of a crash, and asks everyone to slow down near crews. A few reminders worth repeating.
- Obey the posted work zone speed limit, even at night when it feels empty.
- Put the phone away and watch for lane shifts, cones and barrels.
- Leave extra following distance so you aren't caught off guard by sudden stops.
- Follow New Jersey's Move Over Law. When you see flashing lights on the side of the road, slow down and, if it's safe, move over.
If you break down on the Parkway, NJTA lists its roadside assistance line as 833-GSP-4AID (833-477-4243). For an emergency, call 911.
A good time for a quick auto policy check
Long construction projects mean more stop-and-go traffic and more chances for fender benders. It's a good time to look at a couple of optional coverages. Roadside assistance and rental reimbursement may be available on your auto policy, subject to terms, conditions and availability. It's also smart to keep your insurance card and your agent's number handy in the car.
FAQ
Is the Parkway ramp near Toms River closing now?
No. NJTA says construction is expected to begin in 2027. Check 511NJ for any current, unrelated closures.
What happens to Exit 81?
The southbound Exit 81 ramp will be relocated, and Jersey Shore Online reports Exits 81, 82 and 82A will be renumbered 82A, 82B and 82C.
How long will the work last?
News 12 reports the project is expected to be finished in 2034.
Can I comment on the plans?
Jersey Shore Online reports written comments are accepted through November 16 at HighwayDesign@njta.gov.
Let's take a look together
If you'd like to go over your auto coverage before construction season, I'm happy to help. Call me at 732-504-0301, text 732-914-1212, or stop by the office at 1980 Rt 37 W, Suite 7, in Manchester. Walk-ins are welcome.
Anthony Abbatiello, Agent for Allstate, Abbatiello Financial Group. Licensed in NJ and PA.
Coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions and availability. Not all discounts apply in every state.
Photo: Mike van Schoonderwalt via Pexels
