By Anne Levin 

Once again, the bridge on Washington Road over the D&R Canal has been closed to motorists. But unlike last year, when the span was unavailable between the end of July and the end of October, this round is expected to last only until January 13.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation closed the bridge Tuesday morning between Nursery Road and Faculty Road, to allow replacement of the temporary bridge bearings, installed during the first closure, with permanent bearings. But local access has been maintained between Route 1 and Nursery Road.

Several detours will be in place until the work is completed. Those traveling southbound on Washington Road will be directed to turn left on Faculty Road, turn right onto South Harrison Street, turn right onto Route 1 southbound, and then stay right on Route 1 to take the “All Turns” lane to County Road 571/Highstown/Princeton back to Washington Road.

Alternately, from Nassau Street, turn right onto Harrison Street, and then right onto Route 1 southbound. Stay right on Route 1 to take the County Road 571/Highstown/Princeton back to Washington Road.

Those traveling northbound on Washington Road before the Route 1 intersection wishing to cross the bridge will be directed to turn right onto Route 1 northbound, then take the Harrison Street exit. Turn left on Harrison Street, cross Route 1 and continue on Harrison westbound to Princeton. Turn left onto Nassau Street northbound back to Washington Road.

Motorists on Route 1 in either direction who want to travel into town using Washington Street northbound will be directed to use Alexander Road/Alexander Street or South Harrison Street/Lower Harrison Street.

Access to the D&R Canal towpath is open for pedestrians and cyclists on Washington Road southbound, crossing the Washington Road Bridge over Lake Carnegie. Barriers will be in place to direct people a safe distance away from the construction zone. Pedestrians and cyclists on Washington Road northbound cannot access the towpath; instead, use crossings at Alexander Street and Harrison Street.

Completion of the project depends on the weather and other factors. Check 511nj.org for updates.