Significant Underground Void Found Beneath I-80 in Wharton, Expanding Repairs and Closures

WHARTON, NJ — A newly discovered underground void beneath I-80 eastbound near Exit 34 in Wharton, Morris County has expanded the scope of ongoing repairs, according to an update from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT). The void, located beneath the center lane, was identified during initial testing following a road depression observed on February 10.

While I-80 westbound remains stable, NJDOT has expanded the work area on I-80 eastbound to conduct further testing and implement repairs. The void will require extensive remediation, delaying the estimated completion timeline. The affected area has been secured to ensure worker safety, and NJDOT crews are continuing 24-hour drilling and grouting operations to stabilize the roadway.

NJDOT has increased its proactive drilling and grouting operations from 90 locations to 135 locations along the eastbound lanes. As of the morning of Thursday, February 27, the following progress has been made:

• 51 locations drilled
• 36 locations filled with grout
• Ongoing assessment of additional problem areas

While not all of these locations contain voids, the additional testing is meant to identify weak points and prevent future collapses. The process involves precision drilling and filling underground spaces with grout to reinforce the roadway’s foundation.

With multiple drill rigs operating around the clock, officials warn that the complexity of the repair work means an exact completion date remains uncertain.

To minimize traffic disruptions, NJDOT is working with New Jersey State Police (NJSP) and local officials to manage detours and alternate routes. State Police are manually controlling traffic signals on Route 10 and Route 46 during morning and evening rush hours to improve flow. Additionally, NJDOT has adjusted traffic signal timing on Route 15 to 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."

Detours and Alternate Routes

All I-80 eastbound traffic is currently being detoured at Exit 34 in Wharton, with motorists advised to use Route 15, Route 10, and Route 46 as alternate routes.

Primary Detour – I-80 Eastbound Exit 34

• Take Exit 34 to Route 15 North
• Merge onto Route 15 North
• Use Pondview Drive for a U-turn onto Route 15 South
• Re-enter I-80 Eastbound

Recommended Alternate Routes

1. Route 10 Eastbound

• Exit I-80 East at Exit 28 (several miles before the closure)
• Follow Route 46 East to Route 10 East
• Take the exit to I-287 North
• Merge onto I-80 Eastbound

2. Route 46 Eastbound

• Exit I-80 East at Exit 28 to Route 46 East
• Stay in the left lanes to continue on Route 46 East
• Option 1: Turn left onto Route 15 North in Dover, then return to I-80
• Option 2: Continue 12 miles on Route 46 East and merge onto I-80 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 deployed digital message boards and is using commercial trucking alerts to inform drivers of detours and alternate routes.

NJDOT will continue to assess the situation and adjust repair efforts as necessary. Commuters are advised to check real-time updates on www.511nj.org and plan extra travel time while the closure remains in effect.

Motorists should avoid the area if possible and exercise patience as crews work to ensure the safety and stability of the highway.

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