The Fast and Slow of It: Driving from Carteret to Long Branch

Driving from Carteret to Long Branch can be a bit of a drive, especially when traffic is heavy. Using the most efficient routes can mean the difference between a long and frustrating drive or a smooth and easy journey. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your route.

The Fastest Routes

If you want to reach Long Branch as quickly as possible, the quickest route is via the Garden State Parkway. Here, the fast-paced highway will take you directly to Long Branch in approximately 20 minutes.

Another fast option is to take Highway 18, which may be a quicker option if the Garden State Parkway has congestion that morning. Using this route, you may reach Long Branch within 30 minutes.

The Slowest Routes

Using routes other than the Garden State Parkway or Highway 18 can make for a more stressful and lengthy commute. Route 35 could be one of these routes, although it has its ups and downs. This route can be used as an alternative route to Garden State Parkway and Highway 18, although it may have more traffic, making the drive last up to 40 minutes.

Distance and Traffic

The distance between Carteret and Long Branch may vary depending on which route you take. Taking the Garden State Parkway is a time-efficient way to reach Long Branch and has a total distance of 20.4 miles. Meanwhile, Highway 35 has a total distance of 21.4 miles.

Traffic can significantly impact your drive times on both these routes. Peak traffic times on the Garden State Parkway occur typically between 7 AM - 9 AM and 4 PM - 7 PM. At these times, the drive can take up to 35 minutes. Off-peak times, such as between 9 AM - 4 PM, are much more manageable, with a drive time of around 20 minutes.

For Highway 35, avoiding peak traffic times can make the difference between a 30-minute drive and a 40-minute drive. Rush hour falls between 7 am – 9 am and 4 pm – 6 pm.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your commute route from Carteret to Long Branch should depend mostly on the time of day you are driving. Watching out for traffic jams and choosing routes that are less congested can help make your drive more comfortable, faster, and smoother. Happy commuting!