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Repairs on a large sinkhole that emerged on I-80 in Wharton, Morris County, are expected to continue for three weeks. The sinkhole, which opened on February 10, measures 11 feet by 11 feet and is four feet deep. It appeared in the same area where a previous sinkhole developed in December.
State transportation workers have closed all eastbound lanes near Exit 34 for Route 15 to address the issue. According to NJ.com, additional structural issues were discovered during testing, prompting further repairs. Crews are working around the clock to stabilize the roadway, with 11 drilling locations identified and four filled so far.
Assemblywoman Aura Dunn emphasized the importance of safe infrastructure and praised the New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) transparency and commitment to safety. She urged commuters to check 511nj.org for real-time updates and detour routes.
State Senator Anthony Bucco noted that the sinkhole was initially described as a depression but later identified as a mine shaft collapse. He highlighted the need for ongoing testing to prevent future incidents in an area with a history of mining.
NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor stated that emergency repairs are dynamic and conditions can change quickly. Crews will continue working 24/7 until repairs are complete. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes, such as Route 46 or Route 10, to minimize traffic disruptions.