New Jersey drivers, rejoice! The long-awaited reopening of two eastbound lanes on I-80 in Wharton is finally on the horizon, slated for this Wednesday, weather permitting. This development comes after a series of sinkholes wreaked havoc on the highway throughout the winter, causing extensive closures.
But wait, there’s more good news in store! The New Jersey Department of Transportation has announced that by the end of May, an additional two westbound lanes are also expected to reopen. This news is a ray of sunshine for commuters dealing with the aftermath of the sinkhole saga that has plagued Morris County for months.
The first sinkhole, resembling a four-story building, emerged in December, setting off a chain reaction of voids being discovered under I-80. Initially estimated at around 90 voids, the number has since doubled, indicating the magnitude of the issue. The most recent sinkhole, a 15×15 crater, appeared in March, adding to the challenges faced by the DOT. Abandoned underground mines are suspected culprits behind these sinkholes, further complicating the repair process.
In response to the crisis, the DOT has deployed two teams working tirelessly around the clock to fast-track repairs and stabilize the lanes on both sides of I-80. The goal is to have all lanes reopened by June 25, providing much-needed relief to commuters navigating the impacted area. To avoid the closures on I-80, motorists can follow detour instructions provided by the NJDOT for both eastbound and westbound travelers. Remember, patience is key during this time of inconvenience as crews work diligently to restore normalcy to this vital transportation route.
