On Sept. 5, the state Department of Transportation (DOT) reopened the Interstate 80 west to Route 23 south ramp, following reconstruction. The flyover renovation, which began on Jan. 18, was finished two months ahead of schedule due to efforts from Anselmi & DeCicco Inc. of Maplewood, the rebuilding company, according to Tim Greeley, DOT spokesperson.

"The contractor worked overtime and weekends in order to get this accomplished."

The 80 west to 23 south ramp’s reopening marks the end of the "Spaghetti Bowl" overhaul. The $70 million endeavor began in October 2005. The 46/23/80 retrofit is part of the $195.4 million Route 46 corridor improvement initiative, stretching from Fairfield to Clifton. Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-8th) lined up federal funds for the work.

Greeley said some residual details remain to be done.

"Some final paving and striping work remains on the project, followed by the final punch list items, such as minor landscaping and electrical work. Then the contractor will clean up and remove construction signs, and the job will be complete. We have until the end of the year for that, but expect to be finished this fall."

He added, according to the DOT data, about 20,000 vehicles per day use the ramp.

Wayne Mayor Chris Vergano said the completion is good news for area motorists.

"We are very pleased that the construction of the Route 23 southbound ramp was finished two months early. Wayne residents, and everyone else who uses this roadway, should be pleased that the construction is finished. This should enable the traffic to flow much easier, and permit people to get to their final destination in an expeditious manner."

Totowa Councilman John Waryas - a transportation issue observer - echoed that.

"Anything that moves traffic more freely is a definite advantage for everyone."

Waryas also said he noticed the Spaghetti Bowl is now completely streamlined.

"I see the sight lines are better. Traffic is moving better. It’s brighter at night. The signage is clearer. The lane markings are better."

In a release, Pascrell said the renovation was much needed, adding that the junction was outdated.

"The convergence of these three highways was never designed to handle the volume of traffic that has choked the interchange during peak hours."

He characterized the project’s end as "a long awaited, but major victory for Wayne and the people of Passaic County."

"With the work we have completed to replace bridges, modify ramps, resurface roads, and add signage, commuters will spend less time in their cars, and more time at home. In addition to the improved quality of life conditions for those who use the highways, we have created safer roads that promise to reduce the number of auto accidents."