UPDATE: I-80 eastbound remains closed and detoured for emergency sinkhole repairs in Wharton Borough
Traffic advised to use Route 46 and other alternate routes
WHARTON BOROUGH, NJ (Morris County) – I-80 eastbound remains closed and detoured for emergency sinkhole repairs in Wharton Borough.
On Dec. 26, at around 7:45 a.m., I-80 eastbound was closed after Exit 34 in Wharton, near mile post 34, due to a sinkhole in the right shoulder and right lane.
NJDOT crews have stabilized the area and began excavation work Thursday night in the right shoulder and right lane on I-80 eastbound, near mile post 34.
Crews will continue working around the clock to complete the repair and reopen the highway as soon as possible.
“It is too soon to estimate a specific time because of the extensive nature of the repairs and forecasted weather this weekend,” NJDOT said.
The cause of the 40-foot by 40-foot sinkhole was a collapse of an abandoned mineshaft.
I-80 eastbound will remain closed until further notice. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes, such as Route 46, or use the following detour that remains in place:
Route 46 eastbound Alternate Route:
- Motorists on I-80 eastbound are advised to take Exit 28/Route 46 eastbound to Route 10/Ledgewood/Lake Hopatcong, which is several miles before the closure
- Continue on Route 46 eastbound
- Stay in the left two lanes to turn left at the traffic signal to continue on Route 46 eastbound
- Turn left onto Route 15 northbound in Dover back to I-80 or continue on Route 46 eastbound for about 12 miles and stay left for I-80 eastbound
I-80 eastbound Detour:
- Motorists on I-80 eastbound are being directed to take Exit 34 to Route 15/Wharton/Dover/Sparta
- Stay right following signs for Route 15/Jefferson/Dover/Sparta
- Stay in the left lane on North Main Street to Route 15 southbound/To I-80/Dover
- Merge onto Route 15 southbound
- Stay left to take the exit to I-80 eastbound
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website for construction updates and real-time travel information.
