Urgent Lincoln Tunnel Traffic Alert: Major Delays After Pedestrian Incident on Route 495
Commuters heading to and from New York City faced a nightmarish start to their day following a tragic incident on Route 495 in New Jersey. A fatal pedestrian strike early Wednesday morning has caused significant disruptions, particularly impacting traffic flow near the crucial Lincoln Tunnel.
The incident occurred on the westbound side of Route 495, near Kennedy Boulevard in Union City. This unfortunate event led to immediate diversions for traffic exiting the Lincoln Tunnel, rerouting vehicles onto local streets and creating a ripple effect of delays across the region.
The Ripple Effect: Beyond Union City
The impact wasn’t limited to just those leaving the city. Traffic inbound to New York City also experienced severe congestion, backing up all the way to Route 3 by the Meadowlands. This “rubbernecking” phenomenon—where drivers slow down to observe an incident—significantly exacerbated the already challenging conditions.
Further complicating matters, the express bus lane was temporarily closed, forcing buses to merge with general traffic. This bottleneck added extra time to countless commutes, highlighting the fragility of urban transportation networks when faced with unexpected events.
What Happened? The Investigation Underway
Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the crash. While details are still emerging, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances that led to this tragic incident on such a vital artery for New Jersey and New York commuters. Law enforcement urges patience as they work to clear the scene and determine the facts.
Commuter Advisory: Navigating the Chaos
In light of these unprecedented delays, commuters were strongly advised to seek alternative routes. The George Washington Bridge was a primary recommendation for those needing to cross the Hudson River. Additionally, utilizing real-time traffic applications like Waze or Google Maps can provide invaluable assistance in navigating around congestion and finding the most efficient path.
For ongoing updates and real-time traffic conditions, always consult official sources. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) website and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) are excellent resources for the latest advisories concerning the Lincoln Tunnel and surrounding roadways.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Incidents like these serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance on our roadways. Always drive cautiously, pay attention to traffic alerts, and consider public transit alternatives when major disruptions occur. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic event.
