NJDOT TOOLS HELP COMMUTERS NAVIGATE SINKHOLE TRAFFIC

NJDOT's 511nj.org gives commuters a real-time glimpse at traffic near the sinkhole site on Route 80 – and beyond.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation shared some disappointing but not unexpected news for anyone trying to negotiate the roads blocked or clogged by the Route 80 sinkhole repair efforts in Wharton: It won't be a quick fix.

Barring weather delays and unforeseen obstacles, the three-part project is projected to be completed by June 25. Here's the latest NJDOT travel advisory – complete with some resources to make the trip at least a little less difficult.

The permanent long-term repair of I-80 eastbound is progressing in Wharton, Morris

County. In addition, I-80 westbound testing has been completed and revealed a significant void

under the left lane, requiring all westbound lanes to remain closed and detoured at Exit 34B until it is repaired.

If everything progresses as planned, the repair of two lanes on I-80 eastbound will be completed and reopened in approximately seven weeks, with the remaining lanes expected to reopen soon after. The final design of the I-80 westbound repairs is expected to be completed next week, with westbound repairs beginning thereafter. There will be two separate crews working concurrently – one on the eastbound side and one on the westbound side – to expedite repairs. If everything progresses as planned, two lanes on I-80 westbound will be completed and reopened in approximately five weeks, with the remaining lanes expected to reopen soon after. Crews will continue working 24 hours a day until repairs are completed and the highway reopened.

“As we continue to work 24/7 to repair I-80, unfortunately, testing revealed another significant

void in the left lane of I-80 westbound,” Governor Phil Murphy said. “As we have said since

these issues began, safety is our top priority and we must ensure that the roadway is safe for

motorists before we can reopen. I am confident in the plan Commissioner Fran O’Connor and his team have put together to get this critical roadway repaired and reopened.”

Last week, Governor Murphy also announced that NJ TRANSIT is offering a 50% discount on

roundtrip travel for those affected by the ongoing emergency repair work on I-80. The 50%

discount offer will remain in effect for the duration of the repairs and aims to provide an

alternative travel option while alleviating congestion in the impacted area. The Governor also

declared a State of Emergency in Morris County earlier this month to request emergency relief

federal funding for repairs.

“The good news is the permanent long-term repair on I-80 eastbound is progressing. If no other

problems arise, we expect to reopen at least two lanes in the eastbound direction by mid-May,”

NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “Unfortunately, the discovery of another significant void requires I-80 westbound to remain closed to ensure public safety. If repairs continue as

planned, two westbound lanes should reopen in early May.

“NJDOT continues to work with the New Jersey State Police and the local communities to make adjustments to improve mobility in the neighboring communities. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of residents, businesses, and motorists as we work together while repairs are being made. We encourage motorists to consider all alternatives when traveling through the area – whether it’s taking NJ TRANSIT, working from home if possible, or adjusting your work schedule to avoid rush hour.”

“Today’s update from the NJDOT provided key insights into the I-80 situation. The westbound

lanes remain closed, but the NJDOT is advancing a permanent solution on both sides, aiming for completion of the westbound side in 5 weeks and 7 weeks on the eastbound side. Obviously, this is subject to change as the repairs continue,” Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) said.

“Additionally, I met with the NJEDA and, along with my colleagues in the 25th Legislative District, are working to develop a grant program for businesses affected by the I-80 shutdown. I stressed that this program should mirror COVID-19 relief, which the NJEDA is responsive to, and we expect more details by the middle of next week. The NJEDA will be in Wharton on Monday to further assist the business community.

“I understand the frustration of commuters and businesses. I truly appreciate everyone’s

patience. My office stands ready to assist if anyone has questions, concerns, or requires

additional help.”

“I appreciate the NJDOT’s continued transparency and the steady progress being made. While this won’t be a quick fix, it is why I am continuing to push for ways we can support the residents and small businesses bearing the brunt of this disruption,” Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn said. “I also want to thank everyone for their patience as the state works toward a long-term solution that we can all have faith in.”

“The public has been given timelines for completion of work,” Assemblyman Christian

Barranco said.

“My legislative team will continue to monitor the progress made."

FOLLOW NJDOT UPDATES

NJDOT has created an I-80 project web page to keep the public informed about the progress

of repairs. Information about detours, alternate routes, and other options to minimize traffic

congestion in the area can also be found on the web page.

• A new I-80 travel time page has been added to www.511NJ.org and has current travel times on the detour routes and alternate routes.

• Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for

  construction updates and real-time travel information.

• Follow NJDOT news follow on X (Twitter) @NewJerseyDOT, on the NJDOT Facebook page, or Instagram @NewJersey.DOT.