By: Richard L. Smith
Motorists traveling through Hillside are being urged to expect delays after an overturned tanker spilled cooking oil across Route 22 westbound, forcing emergency cleanup and roadway repairs.
According to transportation officials, the crash occurred Monday, August 31, prompting the closure of all westbound lanes before Bloy Street at approximately 11:30 a.m.
One westbound lane reopened around 3:30 p.m., but another lane and the ramp to Bloy Street remain closed as crews continue cleaning up the cooking oil.
Officials said the spill caused enough damage to the roadway that a portion of Route 22 and the Bloy Street ramp will have to be milled and repaved.
Repairs are expected to continue into Tuesday morning, although rain could affect the completion time.
Drivers are advised to avoid the area when possible and consider I-78 westbound as an alternate route. Motorists who remain on Route 22 should slow down, use caution and expect delays.
The reopening schedule remains subject to weather and other conditions.