New Jersey's Mysterious 'See Something, Say Something' Roadway Campaign Sparks Terror Fears

Drivers in New Jersey have recently encountered perplexing roadway signs that have sent shockwaves of fear through the state. The signs, which read 'Suspect Terrorism? See Something, Say Something,' display a tip line number to report potential threats. This initiative forms part of a public safety campaign launched by the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) in collaboration with the state Department of Transportation and New Jersey Turnpike Authority.

However, these enigmatic signs appeared abruptly on major highways with minimal notice or fanfare, leaving residents in a state of alarm and bewilderment. Some speculate that this cryptic display could indicate an undisclosed danger lurking beneath the surface, an imminent threat yet to be disclosed to the public.

Local station News12 interviewed Laura Brunetti, a resident of Manalapan, who expressed her unease, saying, 'This makes me think that there’s an underlying thing going on that’s not public yet.' The signs have undoubtedly sparked a wave of speculation among other residents who wondered if they are somehow connected to the approaching anniversary of the devastating September 11 terror attacks.

A news release on August 30 shed some light on the situation, stating that Variable Message Signs had been strategically installed across the state to remind drivers on major interstates to remain attentive and report potential threats or suspicious activity related to terrorism or any form of criminal behavior.

Explaining the campaign's objective, NJOHSP Director Laurie Doran emphasized the importance of public vigilance and engagement. She stated, 'The goal of the campaign over the next few months is to remind residents and visitors, who may be traversing New Jersey’s highways for vacation, holiday shopping, and other festivities, of the importance of being aware of their surroundings and of reporting suspicious activity.'

The campaign, lasting from September to mid-February, showcases nearly 200 signs endorsing NJOHSP's suspicious activity reporting number along the New Jersey Turnpike and Interstate Highways. These signs relentlessly target drivers during the morning and afternoon rush hours, seven days a week. The slogan 'See Something, Say Something' is meant to serve as a constant reminder for motorists to actively contribute to the safety and security of their surroundings.

NJDOT Commissioner and NJ Turnpike Authority Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti emphasized the shared responsibility for safety and security, stating, 'Safety and security are everyone’s responsibility. […]. If you ‘See Something, Say Something’ when driving through our State.'

The timing of this campaign holds additional significance as it coincides with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's national 'If You See Something, Say Something' Awareness Day, observed on September 25. These collective efforts highlight the critical role that citizens play in safeguarding public safety by reporting suspicious activities.

While the true motives behind this enigmatic campaign remain undisclosed, residents and visitors alike are engulfed in a state of perplexity, urging them to question what lies beneath the guise of these mysterious signs. With New Jersey's roads serving as a backdrop for this intrigue-filled journey, the impact of this campaign and its potential implications resonate deeply within the hearts and minds of those who traverse them.