The iconic Sheraton Crossroads Hotel in Mahwah, New Jersey, a landmark for decades, has been reduced to rubble in a controlled implosion on Saturday morning. The demolition marks the end of an era for the glass and steel structure that once stood tall on International Boulevard, off NJ-17 and I-287. This event drew significant attention, with many eager to witness the transformation of the local landscape. For those unable to attend in person, CBS News New York provided a live stream of the demolition.
The implosion was carefully planned and executed, with numerous safety measures in place to protect the surrounding areas. Road closures and security personnel were present to manage the event and ensure public safety. The demolition not only alters the skyline of Mahwah but also opens up new possibilities for future development of the site. This article provides a detailed account of the implosion, including the preparations, the event itself, and the aftermath, offering a comprehensive overview for those interested in this significant local event.
Viewing the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel Implosion
The Township of Mahwah had announced that the Sheraton hotel site was closed to all non-credentialed personnel during the implosion. To prevent trespassing and ensure public safety, security and police were on-site. The demolition was not sponsored by the town, as the hotel stood on private property. Consequently, those hoping to catch a glimpse of the implosion were directed to alternative viewing options.
Several locations with partial views of the Sheraton were suggested by the township, though these were not accessible by vehicles. Walking was the only option for those attempting to view the event from these spots. Most importantly, CBS News New York livestreamed the implosion, allowing people to witness the event from the comfort and safety of their homes. This live coverage ensured that everyone had the opportunity to see the iconic hotel come down, regardless of their physical location.
Highway and Road Closures for the Implosion
Significant road closures were put in place around the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel site to ensure the safety of the public during the implosion. These closures remained in effect until an "all clear" was given following the event. According to the township, access to Stag Hill Road was restricted to non-residential vehicular traffic at the Mountainside Avenue intersection, with non-residential vehicles directed back onto Route 17 South.
Additionally, Geiger Road was closed to non-residential vehicular traffic. Several other streets, including First Street, Meadow Avenue at State Street, Long Avenue, Johnson Avenue, Catherine Avenue, Brook Street, Strysko Avenue, Sustack Place, and South Street, were also closed to non-residential vehicular traffic. The New Jersey State Police patrolled the local highways from 5:00 a.m. until after the "all clear" signal was issued post-implosion. Parking on the shoulders of Routes 17 or 287 was prohibited, and vehicles in non-compliance were towed away. For a period of 15 minutes before the implosion, the State Police slowed and then completely stopped all highway vehicular traffic in the vicinity of the Sheraton site. Traffic remained halted until the "all clear" signal was received, which could have been anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes after the event.
Detailed Maps of Mahwah Road Closures
To provide clarity on the extent of the road closures, Mahwah Township released detailed maps illustrating the affected areas. These maps showed that numerous roads were closed to ensure public safety during the demolition of the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel.
These maps helped residents and commuters plan alternate routes and avoid the area during the implosion. The road closures were a necessary measure to prevent accidents and ensure that the demolition proceeded smoothly and safely.
More from CBS News
For further information on related topics and news from the region, CBS News offers a variety of reports and articles. Recent stories include updates on a potential NJ Transit strike, investigations into a helicopter crash in New York City’s Hudson River, the unveiling of Larry Doby Field’s new turf in Paterson, and the NTSB’s preliminary report on a plane crash in Copake, N.Y.
These stories provide additional insights into the local and regional events shaping the New York and New Jersey area. Staying informed about these developments helps residents understand the broader context of their communities and the issues affecting their daily lives.
Conclusion: The End of an Era for the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel
The implosion of the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel in Mahwah, New Jersey, marks a significant moment in the town’s history. The controlled demolition of this iconic structure was a carefully orchestrated event, designed to ensure public safety while transforming the local landscape. Although viewing the implosion in person was restricted, the live stream provided by CBS News New York allowed countless individuals to witness the event from afar.
The road closures and security measures implemented by Mahwah Township and the New Jersey State Police underscore the importance of safety and careful planning in such large-scale operations. As the dust settles, the focus now shifts to the future of the site, with possibilities for new developments and opportunities that will shape the region for years to come. This event serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of our communities and the continuous cycle of renewal and progress.
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