WHARTON, NJ —A newly discoveredunderground void beneath I-80 eastboundnearExit 34inWharton, Morris Countyhas expanded the scope of ongoing repairs, according to an update from theNew Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT). The void, located beneath the center lane, was identified during initial testing following aroad depression observed on February 10.
WhileI-80 westbound remains stable, NJDOT hasexpanded the work area on I-80 eastboundto conduct further testing and implement repairs. The void will requireextensive remediation, delaying the estimated completion timeline. The affected area has been secured to ensure worker safety, and NJDOT crews are continuing24-hour drilling and grouting operationsto stabilize the roadway.
NJDOT has increased itsproactive drilling and groutingoperations from90 locations to 135 locationsalong the eastbound lanes. As of the morning ofThursday, February 27, the following progress has been made:
While not all of these locations contain voids, the additional testing is meant toidentify weak points and prevent future collapses. The process involvesprecision drilling and filling underground spaces with groutto reinforce the roadway’s foundation.
Withmultiple drill rigs operating around the clock, officials warn that thecomplexity of the repair workmeans anexact completion date remains uncertain.
Tominimize traffic disruptions, NJDOT is working withNew Jersey State Police (NJSP)andlocal officialsto manage detours and alternate routes. State Police aremanually controlling traffic signals on Route 10 and Route 46during morning and evening rush hours toimprove flow. Additionally, NJDOT hasadjusted traffic signal timing on Route 15to ease congestion.
“After finishing the initial testing, the good news is there are no immediate concerns about the stability of I-80 westbound. The bad news is a significant void was identified underneath the center lane of I-80 eastbound, which will require an extensive and robust repair,”NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “It is going to take some time to design a repair that will ensure the long-term integrity and safety of the roadway. It is important that we act now to make lasting repairs, so we don’t have to come back any time soon. We understand the importance of this highway and the disruption this emergency closure has caused on travelers and the local community. The Department, in coordination with our local partners, are exploring options on how to improve traffic flow in the area during construction. We appreciate the public’s understanding and the cooperation of the New Jersey State Police and local officials as repairs continue. Crews will continue working around the clock until the road is stabilized and safe to reopen. The nature of the work is complex and time-consuming, making it hard to estimate when work will be complete.”
All I-80 eastbound traffic is currently being detoured at Exit 34in Wharton, with motorists advised to useRoute 15, Route 10, and Route 46as alternate routes.
1. Route 10 Eastbound
2. Route 46 Eastbound
“While NJDOT crews were working to repair the initial sinkhole on I-80 eastbound, a separate, deeper void was discovered in the same area. This new development, along with the discovery of the initial sinkhole, make it clear that the fast action and vigilance of the New Jersey State Troopers who identified the initial road depression, was critical in avoiding a potential serious situation. For that we are all grateful,”Senator Anthony M. Bucco said.
NJDOT has deployeddigital message boardsand is usingcommercial trucking alertsto inform drivers of detours and alternate routes.
NJDOTwill continue to assess the situationand adjust repair efforts as necessary. Commuters are advised tocheck real-time updates onwww.511nj.organd plan extra travel time while the closure remains in effect.
Motorists shouldavoid the areaif possible andexercise patienceas crews work to ensure the safety and stability of the highway.