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Interstate 80 in Wharton has reopened following emergency repairs to a massive sinkhole caused by a collapsed abandoned mineshaft. The sinkhole, which measured 40 feet in diameter, appeared on the eastbound side of the highway, prompting the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) to implement detours and advise motorists to use alternate routes. The westbound lanes remained unaffected.
NJDOT and contractor crews worked tirelessly to excavate and stabilize the sinkhole before reconstructing the roadway. The repairs began after the sinkhole was discovered on Thursday (December 26) and were completed by Monday (December 30) morning, allowing the highway to reopen at 8 a.m.
NBC New York reported that the incident occurred during light traffic, minimizing potential disruptions. However, local police warned of increased traffic on North Main Street during the repair period.
The quick response and efficient work by NJDOT crews ensured that the road was safe for public use, restoring a vital transportation route in Morris County.