Safety Upgrades to Seaside Streets Expected by Summer

Safety upgrades to three Seaside Heights’ intersections will make crossing the busy streets easier for pedestrians this summer.

The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders approved upgrades including countdown pedestrian signals.

“Many families walk throughout the borough to reach the beaches, boardwalk and local businesses from parking lots and their homes or rentals,” Freeholder Director John P. Kelly said. “These improvements will help ensure their safety while crossing at three of the town’s intersections.”

Countdown pedestrian signal heads will be added to the intersections of The Boulevard and Hamilton Avenue, The Boulevard and Grant Avenue and The Boulevard and Summer Avenue, said Kelly, who is also the Director of Law and Public Safety.

The upgraded signals will also be fitted with 10-hour batteries and generator transfer switches to allow the use of temporary generators during an extended power outage, such as during Superstorm Sandy.

“These backup systems will assist the local police department, which will not have to assign officers to direct traffic at these intersections should the power fail,” said Freeholder Deputy Director James F. Lacey, liaison to the Ocean County Road Department.

Other improvements include the installation of audible/vibro-tactile pushbuttons and ADA compliant handicap ramps.

The Freeholders are seeking bids and expect the project to be completed before the start of the summer. The projected cost is $175,000.