Tanker Spill Closes Route 22 Westbound Lanes in Hillside

A tanker truck overturned on Route 22 westbound in Hillside at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, spilling cooking oil onto the roadway. All westbound lanes were initially closed before Bloy Street following the incident.

One westbound lane reopened at approximately 3:30 p.m. on August 31, 2026. The Bloy Street ramp to Route 22 westbound remained closed as of publication. The incident caused significant traffic delays in Hillside during the afternoon commute.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation reported that the cooking oil damaged the roadway surface, requiring milling and repaving of a portion of Route 22 and the Bloy Street ramp. The scope of the roadway work indicates the spill's impact on the pavement structure. The New Jersey Department of Transportation stated that roadway work is expected to be completed by Tuesday morning, weather permitting.

Rain could affect the schedule for completing the repairs, as moisture impacts milling and repaving operations. Motorists should monitor weather and traffic updates for any delays to the anticipated completion timeline.

Motorists can check 511NJ.org for real-time traffic information and updates on the roadway work. The site provides current lane status, incident updates, and expected reopening timelines.

Union County Life covers Hillside traffic incidents, road closures, and community news. Stay informed about Hillside announcements and updates on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What happened on Route 22 westbound in Hillside?
A: A tanker truck overturned at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, spilling cooking oil onto Route 22 westbound before Bloy Street. All westbound lanes were initially closed.

Q: What is the current status of Route 22 westbound?
A: One westbound lane reopened at approximately 3:30 p.m. on August 31, 2026. The Bloy Street ramp to Route 22 westbound remained closed as of publication.

Q: Why are repairs needed?
A: The New Jersey Department of Transportation reported that the cooking oil damaged the roadway surface. Milling and repaving of a portion of Route 22 and the Bloy Street ramp are required.

Q: When will repairs be completed?
A: The New Jersey Department of Transportation stated that roadway work is expected to be completed by Tuesday morning. Rain could affect the schedule for completing the repairs.

Q: Where can I find real-time traffic updates?
A: Motorists can check 511NJ.org for real-time traffic information and updates on the roadway work and expected reopening timelines.

Q: What traffic delays can I expect?
A: The incident caused significant traffic delays in Hillside. With only one westbound lane open and the Bloy Street ramp closed, motorists should expect congestion during the repair period.

Q: Where can I find more Hillside traffic and emergency updates?
A: Union County Life covers Hillside traffic incidents, road closures, and emergency announcements. Visit unioncountylife.com for local updates.