Assemblywoman Aura Dunn provides update on ongoing sinkhole repairs on I-80 in Wharton Borough
WHARTON BOROUGH, NJ (Morris County) – Assemblywoman Aura Dunn is providing the latest information on the ongoing sinkhole repairs on I-80, which have caused significant disruptions for local commuters.
Dunn continues to work closely with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) to ensure that repairs are completed safely and efficiently.
On March 19, a 15-foot by 15-foot hole, approximately 20-25 feet deep, opened up in the median of the I-80 eastbound work zone. Out of an abundance of caution, NJDOT closed and detoured I-80 westbound at Exit 34B/Route 15 north. Both the eastbound and westbound lanes of I-80 remain closed while repairs are underway.
No injuries have been reported, and the hole has been temporarily stabilized. However, further repairs are necessary to fully address the issue.
The cause of the sinkholes is believed to be related to a mine located 200-300 feet beneath the roadway. NJDOT is working to implement both short-term fixes and long-term solutions to ensure the roadway’s safety and stability.
In response to the new sinkhole, additional testing on the westbound side of I-80 is now underway. NJDOT crews have paused non-essential roadwork across the state to focus all resources on this critical repair. The DOT Commissioner has also been in contact with federal and neighboring state transportation departments to collaborate on managing traffic flow and sharing resources.
The previously planned crossover to temporarily shift eastbound traffic onto the westbound side in order to alleviate congestion has been put on hold while NJDOT completes testing and assessments on the westbound lanes. The crossover plan will be reconsidered once testing is finished.
While repairs continue, NJDOT is working closely with local officials to ensure detour routes are as effective as possible. Assemblywoman Dunn is in direct communication with mayors to address specific community needs. Updates regarding detours and closures are being communicated through digital notices, including alerts to truck drivers.
In addition, Assemblywoman Dunn is exploring legislative solutions to assist local businesses and municipalities impacted by the extended closures. This could include potential financial support to help mitigate the disruption.
Assemblywoman Dunn thanked the public for their patience and understanding during this critical repair work. “I will continue to closely monitor the situation, and my office remains available to address any questions or concerns,” she said.
Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed about real-time updates at 511nj.org.
