TOMS RIVER – Tensions flared at a recent Ocean County Board of Commissioners meeting in Toms River as officials sharply criticized Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) for delays in a major road-widening project on Cross Street in Lakewood.
The project, aimed at alleviating severe traffic congestion in one of Ocean County’s fastest-growing areas, has been stalled for over a year. Commissioners say the delay stems from JCP&L’s failure to replace 38 utility poles along the route.
Commissioner Frank Sadeghi, a civil engineer, called the delays unacceptable and accused JCP&L of treating Ocean County as a lesser priority. “It’s clear that JCP&L doesn’t take the needs of Ocean County residents seriously,” he said, emphasizing the project’s importance to the community.
JCP&L representative Robert Brice defended the company, citing supply chain challenges as the primary reason for the holdup. The poles required for the project are specialized, taller, hurricane-resistant models that must meet strict engineering specifications. Brice explained that new poles can only be ordered after receiving detailed project designs, which he said contributed to the delay.
Commissioner Jack Kelly was unimpressed, stating the utility company had ample time to prepare. “This has been in the works for years. It’s your job to get those poles ready and in place,” he said, adding that the delay reflects poor planning.
Brice pointed to JCP&L’s investments in Ocean County, including infrastructure upgrades and smart meter installations, but acknowledged the frustration caused by the stalled project.
In an effort to move forward, Kelly proposed a private meeting with Brice and the county engineering team to focus on solutions. “We need to stop pointing fingers at the past and figure out how to get this done,” Kelly said.
The Cross Street project, part of a broader initiative to address Lakewood’s rapid growth and infrastructure needs, remains a priority for county officials. The commissioners hope the upcoming meeting will lead to a resolution and a clearer timeline for the work.
AP
