VIDEO: Wall-22 Collapse: A Call for Better Oversight on Transportation Projects

For the past five years, drivers traveling along Route 42 or 295 in Bellmawr have likely noticed the massive retaining wall along the highway – Wall-22. In 2021, that wall collapsed, halting construction on the highly anticipated I-295 Direct Connect Project for several years.

Recent reports have revealed that there were red flags from the very beginning. The road contractor had warned the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and its engineers that the type of sand selected for the base of the wall would not adequately support the weight of the above road. They recommended an alternative material that would have cost an additional $70,000. However, their concerns were dismissed.

While we’ll never know if this extra investment could have prevented the collapse, the current repair costs are estimated to be $92 million.

This incident has made it clear that stricter oversight is necessary for our transportation projects. That's why I’ve sponsored legislation requiring independent engineers to act as neutral referees in situations like these, ensuring that disputes between construction officials and engineers are thoroughly examined by an independent third party. This new measure is aimed at increasing transparency, safety, and accountability in transportation projects across the state.

Have questions or feedback? Feel free to contact my office at 856-232-6700.