How the New Jersey Turnpike Changed America Forever - IT'S HISTORY

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  • Опубликовано: 13 апр 2022
  • Sign Up for your FREE trial to Wondrium here: ow.ly/N27r30scebJ
    In the 1950s, New Jersey's population was bursting at the seams. The only way to accommodate the increasing number of people was to build more roads. And what better way than with a new multi-lane highway?
    This project would come to be known as the New Jersey Turnpike and would forever change how Americans traveled. The New Jersey Turnpike is one of America's most iconic highways, and has shaped the landscape and culture of the Northeast since it first opened in 1951. Join me as I explore the history of the NJTP and how it became one of the most important pieces of infrastructure in our country.
    Chapters:
    02:38 New Jersey's Roads in the 19th Century
    03:37 Beginning of Tolls
    03:51 Turnpike Era
    04:15 New Jersey state highway department
    04:38 New Jersey turnpike authority
    05:06 WW Wanamaker
    07:01 The design speed
    08:00 Pavement
    08:19 New Jersey Turnpike Construction Issues
    09:43 Opening Of the New Jersey Turnpike
    10:48 How the New Jersey Turnpike Ticket System Works
    11:15 History of New Jersey Turnpike Service Areas
    11:57 Amazing places Places to Stop along the New Jersey Turnpike
    12:43 Notable events on the New Jersey Turnpike
    15:19 New Jersey Turnpike in Pop Culture
    17:05 New Jersey Turnpike Digital Advancements
    17:42 Birth of the EZ pass
    18:47 New Jersey Turnpike Widening Program
    » CONTACT
    For brands, agencies and sponsorships, please contact us at itshistory@thoughtleaders.io
    » CREDIT
    Scriptwriter - Camrin Dekis,
    Editor - Sebastian Ripoll
    Host - Ryan Socash
    Sponsor - Wondrium
    » SOURCES
    / itshistory
    » NOTICE
    Some images may be used for illustrative purposes only - always reflecting the accurate time frame and content. Events of factual error / mispronounced word/spelling mistakes - retractions will be published in this section.

Комментарии • 682

  • @ITSHISTORY
    @ITSHISTORY  2 года назад +16

    Sign Up for your FREE trial to Wondrium here: ow.ly/N27r30scebJ

    • @karldammann
      @karldammann 2 года назад

      Excellent breakdown my dude!

    • @DavidOConnellvTnY1991
      @DavidOConnellvTnY1991 2 года назад +1

      You should make a video on Interstate 87 in New York State. I’d love to learn the history of this Interstate.

    • @jimrossi7708
      @jimrossi7708 2 года назад +1

      Yes, please do the Garden State Parkway !

    • @jamesfarrell8339
      @jamesfarrell8339 2 года назад

      Fantastic video
      I love it
      Thank you 😊

    • @raymondstemmer887
      @raymondstemmer887 11 месяцев назад

      They tried to get rid of the BLACKS

  • @danajorgensen2560
    @danajorgensen2560 2 года назад +64

    As a NJ resident, I'm going to tell you a little secret. There is a road in southern NJ called "KIng's Highway." It runs from Salem County to at least Camden County, maybe even further north. The current form of it mostly travels the same route it did most of 300 years ago, though in my area, it was realigned a mile or so further east. That was the state's original toll road. Matter of fact, just a couple decades ago, the state allowed the last toll house from that era (located maybe a quarter mile south of Mantua Creek) to be torn down to make way for a bank, because nobody really realized what the building was until later.

    • @TheHatManCole
      @TheHatManCole 10 месяцев назад +2

      I live right next to that road

    • @emmettmcintyre9607
      @emmettmcintyre9607 8 месяцев назад +1

      I am from Woodbury Heights and never knew about the toll house !!

    • @mistergoodcitizen9914
      @mistergoodcitizen9914 3 месяца назад +2

      Kings highway start in Pennsylvania

    • @tomschauer9161
      @tomschauer9161 2 месяца назад +2

      Federal Street, Camden - Rt. 537 - Monmouth Road: runs from the Delaware River to the Atlantic Ocean ( at former Fort Monmouth, Eatontown ) was an INDIAN TRAIL known to native Americans from antiquity ! ( This is the route that the British were traversing to consolidate their forces in New York when they encountered General Washington at Monmouth Courthouse(Freehold) and engaged in the LARGEST battle of the ENTIRE Revolutionary War ! Had our forces not prevailed, we might well still be British today !

    • @papimulatto492
      @papimulatto492 23 дня назад +1

      I grew up in Woodbury NJ currently a FL resident kings hwy brings memories

  • @subparnaturedocumentary
    @subparnaturedocumentary 2 года назад +19

    new jersey resident checking in, top tip i 295 which is free, parallels the turnpike from the delaware memorial bridge all the way up to mansfield

  • @brocklanders6172
    @brocklanders6172 2 года назад +83

    My favorite road in Jersey is Route 206. It starts in the blueberry farms of Hammonton, and ends when it crosses the Delaware River in the Poconos in the extreme northwest corner of Jersey. An absolutely stunning drive.

    • @gardenstatePR
      @gardenstatePR 2 года назад +8

      Yeah 206 is nice until you get into Hillsborough

    • @WonkieNJ
      @WonkieNJ Год назад +4

      @@gardenstatePR The bypass skips right through now luckily

    • @user-px8wk9tc5c
      @user-px8wk9tc5c 26 дней назад

      I am familiar with U.S.206 where it starts at U.S.30 the White Horse Pike, I traveled on it between exit 6 of the New Jersey Turnpike to Hammonton. I lived in Elwood from 12/14/1963 to 6/21/1969. I used to pick wild blueberries in the summer, picked up pine cone in the neighbors yard and even in the woods. My late mother would make creative Christmas and House decorations from the pine cones.

    • @chenfangoh5182
      @chenfangoh5182 13 дней назад

      @@gardenstatePR that's the epitome of Baustelle

    • @barrymanasse7772
      @barrymanasse7772 13 дней назад

      Is it called 206 because that’s the number of stoplights ?

  • @AverytheCubanAmerican
    @AverytheCubanAmerican 2 года назад +31

    Let's be honest, the New Jersey Turnpike REALLY changed America forever when it appeared in the iconic intro of The Sopranos...can't help but hear that theme song in my head whenever we drive on it
    But not sure how I would feel if I was a famous person from NJ and my legacy in the state...is a service area

  • @masterskrain2630
    @masterskrain2630 2 года назад +405

    Spent 35 years as an Over-The-Road truck driver, and I'm glad that I'm now retired and I NEVER have to see that MISERABLE ROAD AGAIN!!!!

    • @Ragnar009
      @Ragnar009 2 года назад +13

      I'm still a toll collector on that highway. It's a lot easier.

    • @ramencurry6672
      @ramencurry6672 2 года назад +28

      Stop yelling

    • @digitall2848
      @digitall2848 2 года назад +49

      The worst thing about the turnpike is if you miss your exit, you will travel (Forever!) Trying to get back on track

    • @turnpike9680
      @turnpike9680 2 года назад +17

      Same, but only because I moved west. What completely screwed up my experience on the NJT was the fact that they allowed cars in the truck lanes, completely defeating the purpose and messing up the flow of traffic.

    • @Shawn_313
      @Shawn_313 2 года назад +17

      I'm sure driving Rt 1/9 all over would of been much better for you. :(

  • @melasn9836
    @melasn9836 2 года назад +239

    "(The New Jersey Turnpike) has been named the most spectacular highway in the nation." In the same sense that the Hindenburg burning was spectacular, right?
    Signed, frequent Turnpike driver.

    • @colossicus555
      @colossicus555 2 года назад +4

      First thing I thought too lmaoooo

    • @Shawn_313
      @Shawn_313 2 года назад +2

      Take 1/9 from now on.. lol :)

    • @nickcancelliere5638
      @nickcancelliere5638 2 года назад +1

      You from jersey

    • @ericaswenson1034
      @ericaswenson1034 Год назад +5

      I have lived in NJ most of my life and traveled countless times on the Turnpike, and I don't think it deserves to be touted as our nation's most "spectacular" road. Maybe it is superior to other roadways in terms of design and functionality, but certainly not in terms of scenery, at least not around Newark. It does open up further south, but the Garden State Parkway, with its rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Raritan River, is much more scenic overall. The Palisades Interstate Parkway, with its diverse, lush vegetation and quaint, stone arch overpasses, is another beauty of a road. Even NYC and LI, notorious for antiquated road design, traffic jams and accidents, offer more "spectacular" highways than the NJ Turnpike. Some of these would include the West Side/Henry Hudson/Saw Mill River Parkway, the FDR Drive, the BQE, the Cross Island Parkway, the Northern State Parkway and the Ocean Parkway. Interstate 95, overall, has never been known for either safety or beauty, and gets lower marks in both categories than Interstates 80, 78, 87, and 287.

    • @brianarbenz1329
      @brianarbenz1329 Год назад +3

      For that matter, how can a highway be “spectacular?” It’s pavement and painted lines. That’s like the most “unique McDonalds.”

  • @synner707
    @synner707 2 года назад +25

    As a New Jersian who works for NJ Transit.... I'm loving all the NJ history

  • @johnshields6852
    @johnshields6852 2 года назад +161

    I live in Mass, the Mass turnpike was set up to be a toll road for a few years until the cost was reclaimed, you don't really think the greedy government is going to turn that cash cow off do you.

    • @penskepc2374
      @penskepc2374 2 года назад +14

      At least you guys don't have them on literally every stretch of highway like in NH, I Still can believe 101 doesn't have a toll.

    • @bjdon99
      @bjdon99 2 года назад +12

      The tolls now aren't even to pay for the Mass Pike, they are going to pay off the Big Dig cost.

    • @NOrlando952
      @NOrlando952 2 года назад +4

      @@penskepc2374 93 doesn’t have a toll on it right? I thought only 95 did in NH and Maine. The NJ turnpike is worse, I drove the entire length going down to Florida from Boston and the toll at the end was like 18$.

    • @penskepc2374
      @penskepc2374 2 года назад +2

      @@NOrlando952 Hooksett, in-between Manchester and Concord. It's right after the Everett Turnpike and 93 meet.

    • @weevie833
      @weevie833 2 года назад +8

      @@penskepc2374 What do you expect from a state that has no state income tax? I live in NH but i am from NY/NJ. You can tell because I still keep a jar of spare change in the car. Old habit.

  • @rayw3537
    @rayw3537 8 месяцев назад +12

    The Turnpike as well as the GSP are really pretty incredible infrastructure undertakings. Both highways crossing high over the wetlands of Hudson County was always incredible to me. I've always traveled the GSP more, being on the shore, so that has a special place in my heart though. Exit 98 for life!

  • @SupremeLeaderKimJong-un
    @SupremeLeaderKimJong-un 2 года назад +38

    The NJ Turnpike being the most heavily traveled toll road in the US today isn't just all! Back in 1952, it was the most heavily traveled highway in the *WORLD!*
    But something to note, E-ZPass didn't begin in 2000. It was first installed on the NY State Thruway and Garden State Parkway beginning in 1993. Not to mention it was founded in 1987.

    • @chrisortiz9343
      @chrisortiz9343 Год назад +2

      It was also installed on east west expressway in the 90's in Orlando Florida

    • @clarkerots9348
      @clarkerots9348 Год назад +2

      Most heavily traveled toll road. You have to ask yourself how much is taken in per year, and where the heck all that money goes.

  • @playboymaxim
    @playboymaxim 11 месяцев назад +11

    Love this! Growing up in 1970's/80's Queens, the Turnpike was like our gateway to the south, during our trips to our grandparents' house in SC. We used to catch it from the Goethals bridge in Staten Island. The smell was the thing that stood out lol! It got a better the further south we went though. I remember all the rest stops. It also carried us to my favorite theme park, Great Adventure (exit 7a). Will never forget the Jersey Turnpike

  • @westjkl9064
    @westjkl9064 2 года назад +85

    Overall this is a really good documentary on the NJTP. However, not even mentioning the very unique car and car/truck lanes configuration seems like a really large oversight.

    • @trayrite4040
      @trayrite4040 2 года назад +1

      Hit the truck side and go...

    • @therocinante3443
      @therocinante3443 2 года назад +3

      Yeah that pretty huge actually.. that's kind of half the deal with it.

    • @brianarbenz1329
      @brianarbenz1329 Год назад +1

      There a lot of vague statements in the narration. I wonder if it’s partly by robot.

    • @westjkl9064
      @westjkl9064 Год назад

      @@brianarbenz1329 By robot??

    • @therocinante3443
      @therocinante3443 Год назад

      @@brianarbenz1329 most likely. Makes me annoyed that I watched this

  • @fldon2306
    @fldon2306 2 года назад +27

    Vid fails to mention one of the most advanced engineering features, (but shows at 20 and 21 minute mark) the N&S "Cars Only" 3 lanes and outside N&S "Trucks and Cars" lanes with Flyover Ramps at each exit. NJT figured a 6 lane N&S is not as efficient as 2-3 lanes in each direction, especially if there's a crash, etc, preceding HOV and Pay Lanes we now see. Just ask Atlanta where I-85 and I-75 are up to 10 lanes wide, but still come to complete stops especially during Rush Hours!

  • @matthewwurtzel322
    @matthewwurtzel322 2 года назад +128

    As a NJ resident, I typically drive on the Parkway more than the Turnpike. Not only does the Parkway go to more places that I usually visit, but it has much nicer views. I particularly enjoy the wild flowers in late summer and early fall in the center median. You can see them in Central Jersey in Woodbridge around the Metro Park exit and again in North Jersey across Bergen county. I would enjoy a video about the GSP. I'd also appreciate videos about the Merritt, Hutchinson and Wilbur Cross Parkways in NY and Connecticut.

    • @robertkent4929
      @robertkent4929 2 года назад +9

      I agree. Living in Bergen Co, the Parkway is far more accessible and is generally a more pleasant drive

    • @PerthTowne
      @PerthTowne 2 года назад +6

      I agree. The Turnpike and the Parkway were designed differently, and there is a different experience driving on each of them. They are both amazing highways though.

    • @jakeballard7999
      @jakeballard7999 2 года назад +4

      The parkway is Horrible - the lanes are so narrow and all the twists and turns - NO THANKS

    • @karlitop7497
      @karlitop7497 2 года назад +3

      @@jakeballard7999 And there's always traffic no matter the time of day

    • @ernestpassaro9663
      @ernestpassaro9663 2 года назад +3

      @@jakeballard7999 parkway is just for small vehicles turnpike is for all vehicles

  • @douglasmclean2802
    @douglasmclean2802 2 года назад +36

    The Garden State Pkwy has many fond memories for me! Growing up in Rockland County NY, just over the NJ/NY border, I spent a lot of time on the GSP going to the shore many summers, or getting us to Paramus Park Mall for clothes shopping since there wasn't sales tax on clothing 'over the boarder'.

    • @kingdingaling2469
      @kingdingaling2469 2 года назад +4

      Point Pleasant 😏 😎

    • @nickmurphy4209
      @nickmurphy4209 2 года назад +2

      Benny😂

    • @triple-aries
      @triple-aries 2 года назад +3

      I grew up in Rockland County, NY too! I now live in the Jersey Shore 😀

  • @Mayangone
    @Mayangone 2 года назад +23

    I must have driven on this turnpike at least 100 times in 1972-1973. I commuted every weekend from Maryland to Brooklyn. On returning to Maryland, I sometimes took US1. Gas on turnpike was higher about $0.35 to 0.37 a gallon, but on US1, usually about $0.28. I also saved $0.60 on the Turnpike tolls.

    • @lucasrem
      @lucasrem 2 года назад

      The Free Sun now!
      all gone for America!

    • @poindextertunes
      @poindextertunes Год назад

      that commute sounds brutal 😢

  • @stevenwilgus5422
    @stevenwilgus5422 2 года назад +6

    The Garden State Parkway in Southern New Jersey has always been a beautiful drive.

  • @skipstalforce
    @skipstalforce 2 года назад +21

    THe tolls between DC and New york are outrageous.

    • @samanthab1923
      @samanthab1923 2 года назад +4

      Did you see what the toll is for the tunnels & bridges into NYC? Like $15 one way.

    • @Alex-cb2gf
      @Alex-cb2gf 2 года назад +4

      That's okay, I'll stay in Jersey.

    • @joannesmith2484
      @joannesmith2484 2 года назад +8

      @@samanthab1923 That's why locals don't bring their cars in. Leave the car in NJ & take the PATH. Much more convenient.

    • @JimAllen-Persona
      @JimAllen-Persona 2 года назад

      @@joannesmith2484 Some. I’m happy to drive to stay away from the hell that is underground. One can only tolerate the odor of musty, greasy urine that is uniquely New York for so long, let alone some jerk off intent on malevolent activity.

    • @samanthab1923
      @samanthab1923 2 года назад +2

      @@joannesmith2484 I commuted for years & even though my brother lives on the East River I haven’t been into the city in years. They always come out here, PA. It came up in conversation because I used to work for the Port Authority.

  • @jetsons101
    @jetsons101 2 года назад +10

    Great watch. My three favorite drives are: the 95 from Holton Maine to FL, The Pennsylvania turnpike from NY to Ohio and Highway 1 from Santa Moncia Pier CA up to Port Angeles WA, all three great and all three different. Thanks to "It's History" your time and work.

  • @troytheboy9144
    @troytheboy9144 2 года назад +6

    YES NJ VIDEO!! Certified banger

  • @rgkavendek
    @rgkavendek 2 года назад +16

    Yes! Do one on the Parkway soon! My favorite road too.

    • @samanthab1923
      @samanthab1923 2 года назад

      No, the Parkway is no one’s fav. Just lucky it doesn’t allow trucks.

    • @montyb10009
      @montyb10009 2 года назад +1

      I love the Parkway too when it's not crowded.

  • @projectink
    @projectink 2 года назад +7

    I'm a long hall truck driver from Canada and I drive-in New Jersey probably 3 times a week very familiar

  • @bobbysenterprises3220
    @bobbysenterprises3220 2 года назад +24

    Yes on the garden state parkway. Drove these when we went to adopt our birds. I like the historical footage of the road system. That might be because I'm a car guy.

  • @thomascefalo938
    @thomascefalo938 2 года назад +7

    I was a toll collector at Exit 5 of the NJ turnpike in 1966 before going off to college. Got to meet governor Richard Hughes when he came off the pike once. Fond memories.

  • @bretta3
    @bretta3 11 месяцев назад +3

    Years after the NJ Turnpike was finished, engineers noticed that a section of the Turnpike's concrete was far more durable and lasted longer than the rest of the Turnpike. They investigated and found that the concrete batch plant that was used for that part of the highway was very worn out and every day the operators of the plant would pump many gallons of grease into the worn out bearings of the plant. This grease ended up mixed into the concrete causing it to have micro bubbles in it. These bubbles gave freezing water a place to expand into, protecting the concrete from cracking. Today all concrete exposed to freezing water has additives in it that give it micro bubbles, or air entrainment.

  • @m.showers1242
    @m.showers1242 2 года назад +1

    Subscribed! Love your refined and well-researched presentations!

  • @vibingwithvinyl
    @vibingwithvinyl 2 года назад +5

    2:37 to skip the sponsored section.

  • @royalewithchz
    @royalewithchz 2 года назад +13

    Great video Ryan! Would be great to hear about highway 401 in Toronto. Known for ridiculous traffic, it’s one of north americas largest and certainly the widest highway.

  • @christopherboada7921
    @christopherboada7921 2 года назад +7

    Yes, please make a video about the Garden State Parkway. I grew up in Middlesex County near the intersection of the Parkway and the Turnpike. Many memories of taking those roads. My favorite was the Parkway because it was so scenic.

  • @leonb2637
    @leonb2637 2 года назад +10

    Actually, the Pennsylvania Turnpike was a prototype for toll roads, starting just before WW II. It also had branches with extensions to connect to the GW Bridge, 2 parallel roadways from about Elizabeth into Bergen Co.. In large part it was to replace as a main road US Rt. 1 and US Rt. 9 from New Brunswick as were becoming overloaded with traffic, especially trucks. One amazing part is where parallel is Port Newark, a major US seaport, the Turnpike, Newark Airport, US Rt. 1 & 9, and the Northeast Corridor RR tracks.

    • @scottkozel1519
      @scottkozel1519 Год назад +2

      Part of the Pennsylvania Turnpike opened in 1940. The rest wasn't completed until 1956. The NJTP mainline was entirely completed in 1951.

    • @douglasengle2704
      @douglasengle2704 10 месяцев назад

      Part of the wester Pennsylvania Turnpike made use of an unused railroad alignment giving it a better alignment than later Interstates.

  • @grovermayersjr8025
    @grovermayersjr8025 9 месяцев назад +1

    I was born and raised in New Jersey. And I have driven every road in my homestate. I personally think the Garden State Parkway is the most scenic road in New Jersey. I did like watching the traffic speed along the portion of the New Jersey Turnpike at Newark Liberty International Airport. Fascinating to me.

  • @robran53
    @robran53 2 года назад

    I have to say your videos are done very well. And your voice is perfect for this type of narration.

  • @Jprice141788
    @Jprice141788 2 года назад +5

    Video Idea: History of Interstate 280 in NJ between East Hanover and Newark. The history of how they built it is pretty cool. They had delays, towns/cities fought to make it a depressed road, had to cut through an entire mountain, move that rock to east hanover to build up the rest of the road, and build a railroad to get it there.

    • @markrahman9320
      @markrahman9320 4 месяца назад

      I love that stretch when you can put the car in neutral and just coast down for miles. Not a common occurence on East Coast highways.

  • @jimmymcinerney1950
    @jimmymcinerney1950 2 года назад +7

    I go on the Garden State Parkway (GSP) every week. I would love a video on it.

  • @aarondyer1315
    @aarondyer1315 2 года назад +4

    Yes! The Garden State Parkway is my favorite road! Man its smooth driving!

  • @srsykes
    @srsykes 2 года назад +10

    Thanks for the video. Yes, I would love to see a video on the Garden State Parkway. A very interesting highway which offers some contrasts to the Turnpike. But I would hate to see you leave out the Atlantic City Expressway the newest of the trio. For the record, the Turnpike is only four lanes, two in each direction in that section.

  • @jonathanlee7355
    @jonathanlee7355 Год назад +4

    The widening project has been completed for a while now. It basically continued the widening from exit 8a to 6. I was hoping to hear more about the old neon traffic signs..I always thought they were cool.
    I worked a few years in a rest stop. The turnpike was shut down on 9/11 and used as an express highway to NY for 1st responders in NJ and PA.

  • @TracySmith-xy9tq
    @TracySmith-xy9tq 2 года назад +2

    I traveled the turnpike many times as a kid and teenager in the 60s and 70s. My exit was Exit 3.

  • @DingoXBX
    @DingoXBX Год назад +3

    i live in north jersey/ NYC area and i often use I95 just to commute between the jersey suburbs and NYC so i find it really crazy all this history that i never knew of lol very informative 👍

  • @barrymanasse7772
    @barrymanasse7772 13 дней назад

    I love the night time scenery from Newark airport to the parkway interchange. The refineries lit up and churning at night is an amazing scene. We won’t mention what is being pumped. Into the environment. Enjoy the scene!

  • @jerseystrongg2g352
    @jerseystrongg2g352 2 года назад +1

    Whoo hooo thank you for another video of my home state!! Please do one on the GSP!!!

  • @grizzlyrage084
    @grizzlyrage084 2 года назад +3

    I live in jersey and take the turnpike almost everyday. Never thought it was that special and then I visited Georgia. As soon as I got on their highway I missed the turnpike

    • @BTman58
      @BTman58 12 дней назад

      😂😂

  • @tomo9126
    @tomo9126 2 года назад +24

    The NJ Turnpike is for professional drivers and the Garden State Parkway is for the amateurs.
    And it's Taylor Ham, not Pork Roll!!

    • @anonymousjohn386
      @anonymousjohn386 2 года назад +4

      Agreed, taylor ham but parkway is for the shore and tpk is for the western side of south jersey to include delaware and pennsylvania crossings from mercer county and down.

    • @samanthab1923
      @samanthab1923 2 года назад +3

      I know what you mean. Grew up in exit 114. Avoided the Parkway unless headed to the Turnpike. Then it was that high tension driving into the city.

    • @chriswright8464
      @chriswright8464 2 года назад +2

      Yes, exit 9

    • @joannesmith2484
      @joannesmith2484 2 года назад +3

      I grew up eating Taylor Ham but my kids have always eaten pork roll. Started North, ending in South.

    • @tomo9126
      @tomo9126 2 года назад +3

      @@joannesmith2484 Strong parental role models are critical for child development. Let's hope your kids can overcome this hardship. 😉

  • @njunderground82
    @njunderground82 2 года назад +3

    Used to travel the Turnpike everyday, and I still travel the GS Parkway everyday.

  • @davidfrischknecht8261
    @davidfrischknecht8261 2 года назад +15

    The widening project has already concluded. It started in 2009 and concluded in 2014.

    • @JimAllen-Persona
      @JimAllen-Persona 2 года назад

      Thank God 😅

    • @Ragnar009
      @Ragnar009 2 года назад +1

      @@JimAllen-Persona Don't thank him yet, they're starting another one from 6 to 1 I believe. I'm not sure when that starts.

    • @JimAllen-Persona
      @JimAllen-Persona 2 года назад

      @@Ragnar009 That’s Ok, I can hop on 295 around it.

  • @beanzbros886
    @beanzbros886 2 года назад +5

    Love the engineering challenges you went over! Very insightful.

  • @Alex-cb2gf
    @Alex-cb2gf 2 года назад +3

    Yes, always use the parkway for shore destinations. Traffic on weekends is a nightmare at times.

  • @mannyfrencha5736
    @mannyfrencha5736 2 года назад

    Good video. Thanks for the history

  • @edkalegi6504
    @edkalegi6504 2 года назад +3

    The widening program between Exits 6 and 9 was completed some years ago. It's already done.

  • @QuasiTraction
    @QuasiTraction 2 года назад +6

    Definitely do one on the Garden State Parkway. Thanks, Ryan.

  • @Disengagement1
    @Disengagement1 3 месяца назад

    The paintings are so beautiful and nostalgic

  • @angelovalavanis2314
    @angelovalavanis2314 17 дней назад +1

    The best highway in America, it has large lanes, a decent speed limit, multiple lanes, dedicated car lane that keeps trucks and buses away from you while driving, a good number of service stations, and gets drivers quickly up and down the state.

  • @pauldudley8837
    @pauldudley8837 2 года назад +1

    terrific video. yes to garden state parkway video.

  • @charlesoneill7993
    @charlesoneill7993 2 года назад +10

    I was born right off exit 7 of the N.J. turnpike/ route 295 at Walson U.S. Army hospital Ft. Dix N.J, I know we travelled north on the pike at least once in my life when we left for Germany from an airport in NY and I never travelled on the N.J turnpike again until 27 years later in search of my birth certificate and you know what... It still smelled the same!!!

    • @raritania7581
      @raritania7581 2 года назад

      I-295 is next to the Turnpike and has different exit numbers.

    • @charlesoneill7993
      @charlesoneill7993 2 года назад

      @@raritania7581 no shit but you have to go down the pike and get at exit 7 and on to 295 to get to Fort Dix... You really shouldn't leave snarky comments if you don't understand whats being said

    • @Ragnar009
      @Ragnar009 2 года назад

      I'm a toll collector at exit 7. I've been one for the better part of 25 years. Mostly up north. I went to exit 7 to retire. :)

    • @gregb8759
      @gregb8759 2 года назад

      I flew from Ft Dix to Germany as well….I grew up in PA and my doctor was at Ft Dix….that was 1967….I was a wee little lad!!

    • @Alex-cb2gf
      @Alex-cb2gf 2 года назад

      @@charlesoneill7993 Exit 7..isn't that the exit for Jackson/Great Adventure?

  • @auntbarbara5576
    @auntbarbara5576 2 года назад +1

    Looking forward to GSP vid!! 👌👍

  • @craigjensen6853
    @craigjensen6853 2 года назад +2

    My uncle lived off Exit 7A. He was very well known in the 7A region. I miss those old neon message signs at 17:35.

  • @lizhoward9754
    @lizhoward9754 2 года назад +3

    Would love a video on Garden State Parkway! And I am a subscriber and regular Turnpike rider 😀

  • @EpicThe112
    @EpicThe112 2 года назад +1

    Within the Northeast Interstate toll highways I-90 MA Turnpike feature Big dig I-87 & I-90 NY Thruway it's the Tappan Zee Bridge and the Berkshire extension to form the Combined NY Thruway Massachusetts Turnpike systems. I-76 I-276 I-476 PA Turnpike Systems Tunnels including the Blue Mountain tunnels including the Lehigh Tunnels. I-95 NJ Turnpike Express local setup for 63 miles from Burlington County to Fort Lee, NJ that means Eastern Spur Local Western Spur Express.

  • @Arkelk2010
    @Arkelk2010 2 года назад +3

    I am surprised you did not discuss the changeable lit warning signs, like the one shown at 17:34. One of the earliest effective systems I think. Also, the early (through at least the mid-1970s) rest stops had sit down restaurants. Howard Johnson's, with table and counter service.

    • @stever7157
      @stever7157 2 года назад

      If I remember correctly there were Perkins restaurants on the turnpike in the early-mid 90’s when I made several trips. I always preferred the NTP to the GSP due to not having to stop for a toll every 10 miles.

  • @PGHammer21A
    @PGHammer21A 2 года назад

    Agreed there - the southern entrance in Deepwater (Delaware Memorial Bridge) is the home to the first Cracker Barrel I ever visited.

  • @alanstevens1296
    @alanstevens1296 2 года назад +44

    The PA Turnpike claims to be the first!! First segment opened in 1940. However it wasn't completed until 1956.
    The NJTP and Delaware Memorial Bridge were entirely completed in 1951.

    • @jimleech2364
      @jimleech2364 2 года назад +7

      The bulk of the PA Turnpike Was completed in the 1940's. There is also Connecticut's Merritt Parkway. It was completed in 1938.

    • @micksbiggestfan4006
      @micksbiggestfan4006 2 года назад +1

      1968 for the second span of the memorial bridge. NJTP is epic without a doubt

    • @alanstevens1296
      @alanstevens1296 2 года назад +3

      @@jimleech2364
      160 miles of the PA Turnpike was completed in 1940. The remaining 200 miles of east-west turnpike was completed 1950 to 1956.
      The NE Extension was completed in 1957.
      The Merritt Parkway is a freeway but it does not accommodate large trucks. Turnpike service came to Connecticut with the Connecticut Turnpike in 1958.

    • @jimleech2364
      @jimleech2364 2 года назад

      @@alanstevens1296 Merritt parkway does not allow trucks now, but it may have in its early years.

    • @alanstevens1296
      @alanstevens1296 2 года назад +3

      @@jimleech2364
      All of the bridge overpasses on the Merritt Parkway, originally built to a minimum standard of 11 feet at the abutments, are too low for trucks. In some places the bridges are even lower due to roadbed re-grading. The road just wasn't designed for anything but passenger cars.
      Most of the original overpass bridges are still in use.

  • @PGHammer21A
    @PGHammer21A 2 года назад +5

    The same was true in nearby Maryland - in what was to later become the Northeastern Expressway - and later the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial Highway - it was Kennedy's last highway dedication before that trip to Texas.

  • @meluckycharms111
    @meluckycharms111 2 года назад +5

    Interesting! I love learning about post-war americana. Something so ordinary was once a cutting edge idea!
    I did have some confusion about the context. Was the NJP the first interstate highway prj? That set the template for future prjs? I would have liked more info in the 1st qtr of the video. It’s a good jumping off spot tho! Just left with some questions on how it was all put together

    • @thecardsaysmoops3
      @thecardsaysmoops3 2 года назад +3

      The New Jersey Turnpike predates the interstate highway system, and in fact south of Exit 6 it is not an interstate.

  • @charleskra
    @charleskra 2 года назад +4

    The old joke is that when someone finds out you are from New Jersey, they don't ask where, they ask what exit. I myself, am from exit 3.

  • @charlesfcopeland9756
    @charlesfcopeland9756 9 месяцев назад

    As a cross country truck driver, I discovered many business and warehouses were built to accompany the NJ Turnpike. Calling for directions to best get to and leave their companies, most included exits from the Turnpike as only way to achieve this. Since many local roads were not designed with the use of weight, length, and overhead clearance of today's modern 18 wheel vehicles the Turnpike is indeed the safest way (although definitely not the cheapest).

  • @andrewmcphee8965
    @andrewmcphee8965 2 года назад

    What an awesome video, thank you,.

  • @willmatic84
    @willmatic84 2 года назад +2

    I use to drive from camden to Elizabeth all the time on the turnpike 😏👌🏽 cool video

  • @dena81
    @dena81 Месяц назад

    Used to drive the NJT four days a week from the Jersey shore to Manhattan and it was hell!

  • @bongwelll
    @bongwelll 2 года назад +3

    Yes please do the Parkway. I lived off exit 149 in Bloomfield NJ when I first moved to the east coast many moons ago.

    • @NKP73
      @NKP73 2 года назад

      You got it correct! I live at exit…..149

  • @beterryins
    @beterryins 2 года назад +2

    Definitely do an episode on the GSP. The Merritt Parkway and the Hutch too!

  • @tinytattoomike7943
    @tinytattoomike7943 2 года назад +6

    My dad was a cement truck driver he helped build pour the cement
    He was a Teamster he worked for Sam Brain and Ropark
    He use to tell me about seeing Jimmy Hoffa ant his union meeting’s

    • @AkiraKurasawa_
      @AkiraKurasawa_ 2 года назад +2

      Can you tell us where Jimmy Hoffa is 👀

    • @billhuffman4327
      @billhuffman4327 2 года назад +1

      I was born non-union! They work well for the sluggish, and they hold back the achievers!
      Achievers DON'T need a middle man.

    • @Alex-cb2gf
      @Alex-cb2gf 2 года назад +1

      I think you mean Sam Braen cement.

    • @chasbodaniels1744
      @chasbodaniels1744 2 года назад +1

      @Bill Huffman Probably wouldn’t need unions if every worker was treated fairly by their employer.
      Strong unions allowed the post-WWII working class to own their homes and send their kids to college.
      Big Biz pressured the GOP into busting unions. Ronald “Bonzo” Reagan escalated anti-union policies.

  • @greyshadow9498
    @greyshadow9498 2 года назад +5

    The Parkway is a MUCH more pleasant drive. It is definitely in my top 3. US 9 is also a favorite from my childhood.
    Also my personal cruising route from Cape May Point to Atlantic City via NJ 606/619 (and whatever the local street names are). It's a very nice, scenic drive through all of the shore towns from the Cape to Atlantic City.

    • @tomo9126
      @tomo9126 2 года назад +6

      The Parkway is wonderful south of Woodbridge and north of Clifton. Between those cities it's a nightmare.

    • @greyshadow9498
      @greyshadow9498 2 года назад +1

      @@tomo9126 so right

    • @maroon9273
      @maroon9273 Год назад

      @@tomo9126 what's your thoughts on saddlebrook?

    • @rapperbucks3203
      @rapperbucks3203 11 месяцев назад

      No njtp is way better

    • @robhersey1796
      @robhersey1796 4 месяца назад +1

      Yes, done this a couple of times on my road trips to Florida. A beautiful area

  • @albertjones1386
    @albertjones1386 3 месяца назад

    My first trip on the New Jersey Turnpike was in 1952 as Mom and Dad and the family traveled from the Boston area to the Washington DC area. It took around 12 hours to make the trip but the New Jersey Turnpike was the fastest part. Most of the rest of the roads had much lower speed limits

  • @theawesomer8587
    @theawesomer8587 2 года назад +1

    I grew up in Hightstown just off of exit 8. The widening project was completed years ago.

  • @who034
    @who034 7 месяцев назад

    Please do a video on the Garden State Parkway, much beauty flows in and around that part of New Jersey.

  • @hugolafhugolaf
    @hugolafhugolaf 10 дней назад

    Took that road every time we drove from Quebec to Naples, FL. Some parts were confusing, especially the junction where you need to exit on the right, pay the toll and cross numerous lanes to head south.

  • @MattyMatt80
    @MattyMatt80 2 года назад

    This is great!

  • @z609gaming
    @z609gaming 2 года назад +3

    I’d like to see a video about Garden State Parkway. Maybe one about US-1 through New Jersey as well. All very key roads.

  • @JoiceVaderd
    @JoiceVaderd 2 года назад

    Do one on the GSP. I live in Morris County and I barely use the GSP or the Turnpike. If I go down to South Jersey, I take 206 down to I-287 to 206 to I-295. I don't pay any tolls. My girlfriend used them because she lives in Bergen County and goes to school in South Jersey. Her favorite road is the Garden State Parkway, as well. I learned a lot from this video. I'm not native to NJ and was always curious as to why everyone called it the NJ Turnpike instead of I-95. Great video! I sent it to my girlfriend, to watch.

  • @marbleman52
    @marbleman52 2 года назад +2

    The pay as you exit policy was also used on I-30 between Dallas and Ft. Worth back in the 50's-60's, and there were only a few places to exit or get on I-30. After it was obvious that the toll road had more than paid for itself, the public made a huge outcry and the toll booths were taken down.

  • @anthonybranca1800
    @anthonybranca1800 2 года назад +3

    Please do a video on the Parkway. I'm at exit 137. I can also use 136 and 135.

  • @Shawn_313
    @Shawn_313 2 года назад +1

    Would like to see a Garden State parkway video, I grew up off exit 114....live in Canada Now, Actually watching this reminded me that I just drove from BC to Nova Scotia and paid 1 $4 toll the entire way..lol
    I worked/commuted into NY for 20 Years, paid for the monthly bus pass as it was much cheaper to travel that way, Friday's in the summer I took the ferry to avoid shore traffic.

  • @Retired88M
    @Retired88M Год назад

    I’m a trucker from Northeastern Pa and have only driven the truck sections of the GSP a couple times and thought it was a good drive but recently had the opportunity to drive it by car from Long Beach Island to Newark International in the early morning going north and it was very pleasant until I got close to where it intersected with the turnpike and then south in the mid morning

  • @Fljeff7
    @Fljeff7 2 года назад

    After many years of driving this highway as you describe the road I remember times being on it

  • @veronicamdissues
    @veronicamdissues 11 месяцев назад

    Garden State Parkway -- Yes! Would love to see your video on that.

  • @AWSmith1955
    @AWSmith1955 2 года назад

    That widening program was completed a few years ago. I added the rolling stones version of You Can't Catch Me to my NJTP and GS Parkway travel video.

  • @JeffFrmJoisey
    @JeffFrmJoisey 2 года назад +3

    YES! Do the Parkway!! Grew up near Exit 163-Route 17, which, when the Parkway 1st opened, was the Northern Terminus. When the Parkway was later expanded north, it cut thru Circle Dr in Paramus, where a low chain link fence was erected. The road authority placed yellow and black Stop signs on the fence. When those signs were replaced in the 1990s, I was gifted one of the signs, which had been trash bound.

  • @brentvance3958
    @brentvance3958 2 года назад +2

    As a truck driver that drives on the turnpike, it’s garbage. Other states that when it’s paid off they remove the toll. Not NJ and NY. Definitely don’t drive thur the toll without paying. They charge you $50 per toll (admin fee). Pennsylvania charges $0 fees

    • @artemiscool67
      @artemiscool67 2 года назад +1

      It's top 3 most trafficked, I hate tolls but the money to maintain that super stretch has to come from somewhere. You could always use rt 1 (slow but free). Most NE states have highway tolls (and as far down as FL surprised me)

  • @flavious27
    @flavious27 2 года назад

    Lived about 10 minutes from Exit 2 from 1996 until I moved in 2006 to Exit 1 (i95) in Delaware. Also Exit 2 is only 2 lanes in each way south of Exit 4.

  • @evilmotorsports5076
    @evilmotorsports5076 2 года назад +8

    You failed to mention some important advice while traveling in New Jersey. "14A, stay away" or "if it's from Bayonne, leave it alone".

    • @YourMomPussStink
      @YourMomPussStink 2 года назад +1

      BHS standup now does that apply to guys aswell because even shore girls say the same thing about us

    • @evilmotorsports5076
      @evilmotorsports5076 2 года назад +1

      @@YourMomPussStink I wouldn't know. I got out of there 8 years ago. I miss the bar hopping and karaoke.

  • @vassa1972
    @vassa1972 2 года назад

    Interesting video

  • @mattmiller3697
    @mattmiller3697 2 года назад +1

    Would love to see you do the garden state parkway. Live in the northeast and use the parkway to travel for vacation each year to egg harbor township.

  • @michaelnewjerseydiecast5535
    @michaelnewjerseydiecast5535 2 года назад +3

    I grew up nearby the Garden State Parkway and it's my favorite highway to travel through my home state of New Jersey. Being a former native of New Jersey. I really was fascinated about the history and I have Arcadia edition of the New Jersey Turnpike! Thanks for making this and I hope you make the story of the Garden State Parkway Please!!!!

  • @grantstew7318
    @grantstew7318 Год назад

    7:45 is a picture that's in my hometown, I was shocked to see it.

  • @Mike-ge7pe
    @Mike-ge7pe 2 года назад +5

    I prefer the turnpike to the parkway. Despite carrying more vehicles, the traffic always seems to move more easily

  • @SHOdown13
    @SHOdown13 17 дней назад

    Not only do the GSP, but Rt.9 that runs the length of the east side of the state. And while you're at it, Rte 55 that starts in Washington Twp area and abruptly ends in Millville at the conjunction of 2 lane rt47 the rest of the way to Wildwood and other shore points.

  • @ptknudson80
    @ptknudson80 2 года назад +3

    Northern Virginia could learn from New Jersey. I-95 is horrible in Virginia and the expansion has been pointless. It's done little to ease congestion.

    • @EpicThe112
      @EpicThe112 2 года назад +1

      You mean Express Local Roadway set up. I-95 in NJ has it for 63 miles Express Roadway from Ridgefield Park to Newark is Western Spur 1970 Local Lanes Eastern Spur 1951 Upper Deck Express Lower Deck Local

  • @janbell609
    @janbell609 2 года назад +1

    Exit 13 - Elizabeth / Goethals Bridge. Former Staten Island girl.

    • @Ragnar009
      @Ragnar009 2 года назад

      I collected tolls there from 1997 to 2008. You probably yelled at me once :)

  • @hungrysoles
    @hungrysoles 2 года назад +3

    You should do a video on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, the first modern turnpike