The Garden State needs a little pruning.
Grass along state roads and highways across New Jersey has grown out of control, some officials say.
And the overgrowth has become a traffic hazard because it blocks drivers’ sight while they’re merging or crossing intersections.
Woodbridge Councilman Rick Dalina told NBCNewYork that he first noticed the grown grass and weeds back in late April. That's when he requested the mayor’s office ask the Department of Transportation to cut it.
But initially, NJ Department of Transportation workers were not responsive to the excessive grass growth -- their efforts were being poured into the numerous potholes on state roads, which have also been an increasing problem.
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And while the councilman said that there has been progress in the last week, he added, “but they only cut maybe 8 to 10 feet from the road with a lot more to be desired. They have a long way to go before I would consider it safe and acceptable.”
But Councilman Dalina is unaware of any reported accidents.
Some motorists are unconcerned. Jersey City resident Bishoui Beshai told NBCNewYork “I doubt that tall grass would pose such a danger to the extent of blocking road signs, intersections, or ramps. Signs on NJ highways are pretty high and grass wouldn't be that tall.”
The DOT is giving out phone numbers to report potentially hazardous high grass. In Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic Sussex, Warren and Union, the DOT number is (973) 770-5170.
For Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth Ocean and Somerset counties, the number is (732) 625-4340. Residents in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties can call (856) 486-6600.
For Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth Ocean and Somerset counties, the number is (732) 625-4340. Residents in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties can call (856) 486-6600.
