PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. (Warren County) — Crews worked through the night Thursday to remove a dump truck that had fallen into a sinkhole at the intersection of Lewis Street and Summit Avenue, as repairs continued Friday and officials sought donations to help displaced families.
As of 8:30 a.m. Friday, the truck had been safely removed from the sinkhole. Repair crews remained on site replacing a damaged water main, stabilizing the intersection and backfilling the hole.
Electric service has been fully restored to the affected area, officials said. Gas service remained out to nearby homes Friday morning but was expected to be restored later in the day.
Water service has been restored to most homes in the impacted area, with approximately 10 residences still without service. Crews are working to restore water to those remaining homes. On-site support remains available for residents experiencing water issues or needing assistance, and officials urged those residents to contact emergency personnel or Phillipsburg police officers at the scene.
The intersection of Lewis Street and Summit Avenue remains closed and is considered an active construction zone. Authorities are asking the public to respect barriers, avoid the area and use alternate routes while crews complete repairs.
Community leaders are also collecting donations to assist families displaced by the sinkhole.
Requested items include nonperishable food such as canned vegetables and fruit, rice, pasta, crackers and applesauce, as well as personal care and hygiene products. Gift cards to Walmart, Target, grocery stores, Visa and gas stations are also being accepted.
Donations can be dropped off at Phillipsburg Town Hall Clerk’s Office, 120 Filmore St., from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; Norwescap, 350 Marshall St., from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; and the Phillipsburg Police Department, 712 South Main St., from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Officials said the site will remain closed until repairs are complete.
