The NJ State Transportation Innovation Council
(NJ STIC) convened for its first Triannual
Meeting of 2026 on April 28. The central
discussion focused on the release of Round 8
of the Every Day Counts (EDC-8) program
innovations. NJ STIC members discussed which
innovations New Jersey should prioritize and
shared examples of ongoing initiatives
supporting these innovations. Following the discussion, the NJDOT Bureau of Research,
Innovation, and Information Transfer (BRIIT) led a Mentimeter engagement activity to gather
additional input from NJ STIC members. For a full recap of each of the EDC Initiatives
discussed, you can view the presentation notes and recording here.
NJ LTAP Newsletter
Supporting New Jersey’s Local Transportation Professionals
Director’s Message
The third week of July (July 13 – 17, 2026) is designated as Rural Road Safety Awareness Week (RRSAW). The
New Jersey Local Technical Assistance Program will be one of many organizations calling on transportation
practitioners at every level of the industry to help get the message out. Each year heralds in a different theme and
every day of RRSAW is used to focus on an aspect of that theme.
The theme this year is “Rural Modes: On the Road Zero!”, with a focus is on rural modes and what can be done to
reduce transportation-related serious injuries and fatalities. Over the week, five clusters of modes of travel used
across rural America will be shared. This theme is being expressed through video game-like storytelling which will
feature characters for each mode. The “video game” objective is to achieve zero lives lost on the commute. In this
newsletter, we have included more information and a link to all of the resources your agency may use to promote
#RRSAW2026 alongside us.
Current News
NJ STIC 1st Triannual Meeting
New Jersey Traffic Fatalities Decline by Approximately 15% in 2025
“The decline in traffic fatalities in New Jersey in 2025 is a clear step in the right
direction,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Targeted traffic enforcement, driver education,
and engineering safety improvements statewide have all made our state’s drivers and
pedestrians safer. Our office works tirelessly to keep our residents safe on the roads. But
there is still more work for us to do to drive down traffic fatalities, as even one traffic fatality
is one too many. We will continue to take targeted action to drive down traffic fatalities in
New Jersey.”
To view the full data sets, visit NJDHTS.
2026 NJDOT Complete Streets Summit
The 2026 NJDOT Complete Streets Summit, sponsored by the New Jersey Department of
Transportation, was recently held at the College Avenue Campus Student Center at Rutgers
University in New Brunswick.
To learn more about the winners and an overview of the conference, check out the New Jersey
Bicycle & Pedestrian Resource Center.
To learn more about how complete streets can help your community build safer public spaces,
and to see an overview of what the recognized townships accomplished, see this new video.
New Jersey’s Build-a-Better Mousetrap Competition
People involved in the transportation industry often find better ways to do their jobs.
Whether it’s a new gadget that improves the quality and safety of a project, or an innovative
process that reduces costs and improves efficiency, it is typically the people on the front
lines that often realize the latest and best practices.
Visit https://cait.rutgers.edu/mousetrap/ for more information today!
Smart Work Zones
A Smart Work Zone integrates sensors, communication tools, and automated warning systems
to monitor traffic and respond dynamically. The goal is simple: minimize safety risks and
mobility impacts by giving drivers timely, accurate information and helping agencies manage
traffic flow more effectively. These systems can detect slowdowns, adjust speed limits, warn of
queues, and even communicate with connected and automated vehicles, helping reduce driver
frustration and improve overall roadway efficiency.
For the latest resources, guidebooks, and trainings available involving smart work zones, check
out the recently updated resource page at WorkZoneSafety.org.
Featured Training
NJLTAP – NJDEP Clean Communities Update (Webinar)
Learn best practices for roadway maintenance, work zone
safety, and risk reduction strategies for local agencies.
Upcoming Events
- July 17 – NJLTAP – Street Trees and Infrastructure
- July 29 – NJLTAP – NJDEP Clean Communities Update
- August 11 – NJLTAP – Presenting 101
Technical Tip of the Month
Regular drainage inspections can significantly reduce pavement
deterioration and extend roadway service life. Establishing
seasonal inspection schedules helps agencies identify issues
before costly repairs become necessary.
Resource Spotlight
Explore NJ LTAP’s collection of guides, checklists, and training
materials designed to help local public works professionals
improve safety, efficiency, and compliance.
