Thank you for your time!

The families who live in the Watchung Hills area (Warren and Watchung, NJ) need immediate relief from the harmful effects of Route 78 noise pollution. Residents along the interstate's corridor can't enjoy their homes and parks, as the constant and overbearing highway noise has become intolerable.

Here are a few factors negatively impacting the situation we are in: 

• Compared to when the interstate was built in the 1980's, personal vehicles (SUVs, Trucks, Crossovers) and their tire sizes have increased, which amounts to greater road friction and amplified sound
• More commercial trucks delivering shipments along the East coast are now using Route 78 to avoid the traffic and tolls of the NJ Turnpike
• State-mandated, over-development of our towns have destroyed woodlands near the highway. Acres of trees have been clear-cut and can no longer act as a buffer to deflect/absorb vehicle noise

We need action from our government to counter these elements and implement measures to protect our right to enjoy our homes in peace and quiet. The NJ Department of Transportation previously identified Route 78 for a noise study (Mile Post 31.0 - 42.1), but that analysis has been abandoned due to lack of funding. In the meantime, the noise pollution only gets worse.

We are kindly requesting that Governor Murphy connect with the NJ Dept. of Transportation (NJDOT) to accomplish three things:

1. Conduct the noise study this area deserves, so that we can understand the entire situation and how the pollution can be mitigated
2. Allocate the funds to construct the necessary sound barrier walls
3. Explore and invest in additional natural measures like reforestation of woodlands along the Route 78 corridor as part of the noise remediation solution

Your signature is the voice our families need right now to let Governor Murphy and the NJDOT know we need them to take action. It's time to restore peace and quiet in our community.