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Repairs on Interstate 80 in Wharton, New Jersey, are facing delays due to complications from a collapsed mineshaft that caused sinkholes. Initially, two westbound lanes were set to reopen by May 4, but this timeline has shifted to late May due to prolonged sonic drilling. Eastbound lanes remain on track to reopen by mid-May, with all lanes expected to be operational by June 25.
The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has been working around the clock to expedite the repairs. Crews are installing micropiles and preparing for concrete slab construction to stabilize the roadway. The NJDOT reported that the repairs are part of an intensive 24/7 operation to reopen this critical corridor as soon as safely possible.
Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency in Morris County on March 8 to facilitate access to federal funding for the repairs. NJ TRANSIT is offering a 50% discount on roundtrip fares for travelers affected by the closures, which will remain in effect throughout the repair period.
Real-time updates and detour information are available on NJDOT's I-80 project webpage and 511NJ.org. Traffic disruptions continue to impact local communities, and motorists are advised to check these resources regularly for the latest information.