It's On!

After a few days' test period as a flashing light, the traffic signal at Mount Airy Road and the exit 26 Interstate 287 ramp intersection is fully functional.

The new light was due to be switched on to full activation early this week, following the "flash" test period over the weekend, Tim Greeley, spokesman for the state Department of Transportation, said last Friday.

As of Monday early afternoon, the light was working for traffic in both directions — as well as cars exiting from Route 287 that before the light had to cross both lanes of traffic to make a left turn.

The New Jersey DOT already in January had completed installation of the new traffic signal, but needed to wait for the local utility company to activate the light, Greeley said at that time.

The installation cost the DOT approximately $114,000 and was funded by state, Greeley said then. The state will handle maintenance of the traffic signal, but the town will cover the monthly electrical cost to operate the signal, Greeley said.

The allows vehicles to more safely turn across oncoming lanes of traffic when exiting Route 287.