As a little postscript about that "Welcome to New Jersey" sign: When I lived in Massachusetts for 17 years, I'd often get homesick and visited New Jersey every summer and at Christmas time. I can't recall how many times the site of that sign sent chills rushing up and down my spine like the feeling you get when the Star Spangled Banner is played by a band at a 4th of July parade.
As you headed north on the Parkway, the last Parkway exit (Montvale) where I'd got off for my home for many years while growing up was number 172. (The GSP has since added an exit 173.)
I usually play along with the jokers who make fun of New Jersey: When they ask me "What Exit?" I pretend to take them literally and reply, "172"!
There is also a sign that reads: "Last Exit in New Jersey."
I would love to place another sign under that one that reads: "Get off before it's too late"!