The New Jersey Department of Transportation reported that traffic is being redirected following the emergence of a 15-foot by 15-foot sinkhole in the center median on Interstate 80. This sinkhole was caused by drilling operations in the I-80 eastbound work zone.
Construction crews were already addressing existing holes on the eastbound side of the roadway when this sinkhole opened.
This incident comes after NJDOT stabilized a sinkhole in February and filled another significant void with grout.
“The Department will continue its evaluation and develop a suitable design and repair plan. Initial estimates suggest that the repair process will take at least several weeks,” said a statement from NJDOT.
A massive 15-foot sinkhole has opened in the center median on Interstate 80 in New Jersey amidst ongoing construction.
Previously, it was anticipated that I-80 eastbound would be closed for approximately two more months for emergency repairs. However, the discovery of new sinkholes may prolong the repair timeline.
“The ongoing drilling and grouting work is delineating the area necessitating a more extensive repair. Our progress will now be measured by the duration each location takes to be drilled and grouted, rather than the quantity of locations addressed each day,” stated NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor. “This phase of the repair is expected to take another four weeks, with the entire process likely to span about two months.
Traffic was backed up for miles as NJDOT assessed the situation late into the night following the implementation of a detour.
Gov. Phil Murphy has recently announced a state of emergency in light of the repairs on I-80.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy announced a state of emergency in response to the repairs on Interstate 80.
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Mayor William Chegwidden of Wharton mentioned that efforts are being made to address the affected areas, despite it being a federal issue.
“While it’s not our direct responsibility as it is a federal and state road, we are dealing with the aftermath that affects our community,” noted Chegwidden.
