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The Route 18 freeway through Monmouth County, while not properly completed, is quite a joy to drive on. There are no overly faded or chipping overhead signs. It could stand to have a few reassurance shields replaced, but other then that the overhead signs along the entire highway are all very new. The freeway is a major commuting link from its southern terminus with Route 138 to the large Route 36 interchange. The section from Route 36 to US Route 9 is mainly used by those leaving the Eatontown area. The entire length might be more utilized if it were fully completed to Brielle. Otherwise, it seems a waste to go out of your way to get onto it to reach places like New Brunswick or Marlboro, when you can stay on Route 34.
The pavement condition is surprisingly in excellent condition for a state-maintained road. The only problem section is a poorly paved section between Deal road (EXIT 11) and Wayside Road (EXIT 13).
There are no sharp curves or dangerous conditions on the highway, except at the southern end at NJ 138. Congestion at the southern terminus can get bad in the morning and evening rush, despite the recent trumpet ramp improvement.
As far as aesthetics go, the highway is mostly your typical grass median highway, but keeps it very rural by leaving large wooded barriers on either side of the freeway to keep developments hidden from view. The best section is south of Deal Road (EXIT 11), where the median gets much wider and the trees were left in place, giving the highway more of a parkway feel to it. Overall, the freeway section of Route 18 could use some minor improvements aside from the extending, but other then that it is an example with which all rural freeways should be based upon.
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