Trenton, N.J. – The City of Trenton today announced that it is moving forward on an emergency engineering redesign and reconstruction of the traffic signal system at the five-point intersection of West State Street, Prospect Street (Richey Place), Spring Street, and West Hanover Street.

The signal is currently operating in flashing red (STOP) mode, with temporary stop signs installed at certain approaches. The intersection is functioning as a multi-way stop.

According to the Department of Public Works, the outage is the result of significant underground infrastructure failure. Multiple sections of conduit beneath the roadway have collapsed and crushed, severely damaging the wiring that powers the signal system. After extensive investigation by City signal staff, private contractors, Mercer County, and NJDOT representatives, it was determined that the system is beyond repair.

The signal equipment, originally upgraded in the 1970s, does not meet current NJDOT design standards and must be fully reconstructed.

Because the system cannot be restored through routine maintenance, the City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for engineering services to redesign and upgrade the signal. Three proposals were received and evaluated. Brightview Engineering was selected through a fair and open process and awarded a contract complete engineering design and construction inspection services

The engineering phase is expected to take approximately 6–8 weeks to complete plans and specifications. Upon completion, the project will move immediately into public bidding for construction.

The full construction cost is estimated at approximately $300,000 and will be finalized following engineering design.

The City recognizes the serious safety concerns expressed by residents, particularly given the intersection’s proximity to a public school.

In response:

• Police officers are assigned during peak rush hours and school arrival and dismissal times.
• Two crossing guards are deployed during school hours.
• The Division of Traffic and Transportation is evaluating installation of permanent stop signs at all approaches to formalize multi-way stop control until the new signal system is constructed.

“Public safety is our priority,” said Director of Public Works, Hector Weah. “While we understand the frustration caused by this outage, this is not a minor repair, it is a full infrastructure replacement necessitated by underground structural failure. We are moving as quickly as procurement law and engineering standards allow.”

The City will continue to provide updates as project milestones are reached.

Motorists are reminded that flashing red signals must be treated as a full stop and drivers must proceed with caution.

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