Drivers traveling from New Jersey into New York City faced major traffic delays Friday morning, October 23, as construction work caused significant congestion on the George Washington Bridge.
Traffic began building unusually early, with crossing times reaching up to 90 minutes around 4:30 a.m. after three lanes were closed for construction.
The backups extended onto Interstate 95 and Interstate 80 near Fort Lee, affecting commuters heading toward Manhattan and the Bronx.
Construction Closures Cleared
According to News 12 New Jersey, the construction-related lane closures were cleared later in the morning, allowing traffic conditions to gradually improve.
However, significant backups continued even after the lanes reopened.
The bridge is undergoing a major restoration project, and ongoing construction continues to affect traffic between New Jersey and New York.
A Difficult Week for Commuters
Friday’s traffic problems followed two deadly incidents on the George Washington Bridge earlier in the week.
On Tuesday, a Con Edison employee was fatally shot while traveling across the bridge, prompting an extensive police investigation and temporary closures.
On Thursday, a motorcyclist died in a collision involving a tractor-trailer, again forcing lane closures and major traffic disruptions.
Friday’s delays were related to construction and heavy traffic rather than another reported fatal incident.
Motorists traveling through Fort Lee and toward New York City are encouraged to check traffic conditions before departing.
Sources: News 12 New Jersey, 511NJ, October 23, 2026.
By NJ RADAR Team