The $6 million in federal funds secured to extend Railroad Avenue will also help with stormwater drainage and add to the Barnegat Branch Rail Trail, according to Rep. Chris Smith.

Smith, who secured the funds, shared more details about the planned project in a news release. Read more: $6M In Federal Funds Will Extend Road In Lacey

“During peak travel time, the Route 9 corridor in Lacey Township develops heavily, leaving no alternative paths to travel to other parts of the town or its neighboring communities,” said Smith.

He said that it would ease the flow of traffic while also improving safety conditions for drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

The project—which is estimated to cost $6,119,345—includes the construction of a new two-lane limited access parallel to Route 9 from Lacey Road South to Station Drive and from Musket Drive North to South Street. The new roadway would also include a multiuse path known as the Barnegat Branch Rail Trail as part of a joint project between Lacey and Ocean County.

“Additionally, the project will allow Lacey Township to promptly respond to facilitating a new construction of drainage swales, stormwater piping, and an infiltration basin to help correct flooding during rainstorms and make traveling alongside Route 9 in bad weather safer and more efficient,” Smith said.

“Committeeman Tim McDonald, Mayor Peggy Sue Juliano and their team in Lacey helped make the case, and I look forward to working with them through the completion of the project,” Smith said.