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New Jersey officials have identified the cause of a massive sinkhole that appeared on Interstate 80 near Wharton on Thursday (December 26). The state Department of Transportation (NJDOT) confirmed that the collapse of an abandoned mineshaft led to the formation of the sinkhole, which measures 40 feet wide and 40 feet long. The sinkhole disrupted the eastbound lanes, forcing motorists to detour at Exit 34.
Crews have been working tirelessly to repair the damage. According to NJ.com, the NJDOT has stabilized the area and begun excavation work. The repair process involves backfilling the area with wire mesh, stone aggregate, and concrete before repaving the roadway. However, officials have not provided a specific timeline for when the highway will reopen, especially with freezing rain expected in the area.
The sinkhole highlights the ongoing issues related to abandoned mines in Morris County. A report indicates that the county is home to over 100 abandoned underground mines, primarily in the northwestern region. These mines, many of which were improperly filled, pose a risk of subsidence, or ground sinking, affecting roads and structures built atop them.
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes, such as Route 46, while repairs continue. The NJDOT is working around the clock to complete the repairs and reopen the highway as soon as possible, but it remains "too soon to estimate" when that will be, according to Daily Voice.