Sinkhole Closes I-80 Eastbound in New Jersey
Emergency Response and Repair Efforts
Emergency crews are working around the clock to repair the eastbound lanes of Interstate 80 in New Jersey after a large sinkhole opened on the right shoulder on Thursday morning. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has closed I-80 eastbound in Wharton and advised drivers to use alternate routes.
Cause of the Sinkhole
The cause of the 40×40 foot sinkhole was determined to be the collapse of an abandoned mineshaft, according to transportation officials.
Repair and Detour Information
NJDOT crews have stabilized the area and begun excavation work last 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.
Alternate Routes and Detours
NJDOT recommends taking Route 46/exit 28 as an alternate route through the area or drivers will be detoured at Route 15/exit 34. Here are the NJDOT’s route suggestions:
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
Conclusion
The road closure is expected to cause significant disruption to traffic, and drivers are advised to plan their routes accordingly. The NJDOT will continue to work around the clock to complete the repair and reopen the highway as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cause of the sinkhole?
A: The cause of the sinkhole is the collapse of an abandoned mineshaft.
Q: How long will it take to repair the highway?
A: The NJDOT cannot provide an estimated timeframe for the highway to reopen, especially with rain on the way for the weekend.
Q: What alternate routes are available?
A: NJDOT recommends taking Route 46/exit 28 or detouring at Route 15/exit 34.
Q: Can I still use I-80 eastbound?
A: No, I-80 eastbound is currently closed, and drivers are advised to use alternate routes.
