Massive Crack in New Jersey Road Sparks Urgent Evacuations and Months-Long Closures

A deep crack in Smith Street in Middlesex County, New Jersey, has caused evacuations, diversions, and alarm among neighbors and officials. Safety concerns have prompted shutdowns and a comprehensive examination of the quarter-mile road damage between Highland Avenue in Woodbridge and Convery Boulevard in Perth Amboy.

Locals discovered the road crack late last week. The crack grew over the next several days, raising concerns that it could jeopardize surrounding homes, underground utilities, and the foundations of Woodbridge-Palmtown properties. Engineers and local government officials examined the area’s stability and allowed 18 residents to return.

Authorities closed Smith Street and set up emergency routes quickly. Law enforcement is directing motorists away from the affected area at roadblocks. While major repairs are done, the shutdown will last several months. Commuters and neighborhood businesses, especially those who use Smith Street, are already affected.

The road split’s cause is under study. A nearly one million-square-foot warehouse being built in the area this June may have caused the damage. Local officials are also assessing whether subterranean utility lines (water, sewer, or gas) beneath the road were damaged, complicating repair planning.

Woodbridge Mayor John McCormac prioritized public safety. Experts have measured the condition frequently, and while the crack has not moved in recent days, monitoring will continue and residents will be told immediately of any changes.

The harm goes beyond infrastructure; home-owners suffer psychologically. Residents fear foundations are shifting or that a further collapse could harm their property and health. Uncertainty is creating repair expenses and company interruptions.

Middlesex County, Woodbridge, Perth Amboy, and state authorities must coordinate repair efforts. Traffic may not resume for months due to the damage’s enormity and complexity. As cars seek safer routes, delays remain in effect and commuting habits have changed.

This fracture has shaken the town, but experts say it can be stabilized and no calamity is expected. Residents should stay alert and monitor local government safety and repair information.

Sources

• News reports from CBS New York

• Coverage by News 12 New York

• Local Middlesex County and township officials’ statements