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NJDOT expects westbound traffic to resume on two lanes May 30 as median repairs continue, with full completion targeted by June 25
5-29-2025 2:58pm
I-80 Westbound Lanes to Reopen Friday Night in Wharton, Full Reopening Set for Late June
WHARTON, NJ — Two lanes on Interstate 80 westbound in Wharton, Morris County, are scheduled to reopen late Friday night, May 30, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT). The partial reopening marks a key milestone in an ongoing infrastructure repair project aimed at fully restoring traffic flow on the busy highway corridor by June 25.
February SinkholePaving operations on the westbound lanes are expected to conclude by the morning of May 30, pending weather conditions. Once the roadway cools and cures, striping will begin, followed by the installation of a barrier curb to delineate the active lanes from the median work zone. The reopened westbound traffic will utilize the right lane and shoulder area, with the speed limit reduced to 45 mph through the construction area. NJDOT reminds drivers to proceed cautiously and treat the area as an active work zone.
Upon reopening of the westbound lanes, the detour via Exit 34B will be lifted.
Left Drilling and Grouting; Right: Subsurface scanningIn the median work zone, crews have completed concrete pours for all six planned slabs. The next phase involves applying sealant and laying multiple layers of asphalt. These steps are expected to take more time due to the challenges of working in a confined area bordered by live traffic. Despite these constraints, NJDOT reports the project remains on track for full lane reopening by June 25. Workers are currently on a 24-hour schedule to accelerate completion.
Median ExcavationOn the eastbound side, two lanes reopened on May 21, and the detour that had routed traffic through Exit 34 was removed. Eastbound traffic is currently limited to 40 mph through the remaining work zone.
To support driver awareness and route planning, NJDOT has developed a dedicated I-80 project web page and launched a new travel time feature at 511NJ.org, offering real-time updates and detour information for the corridor.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to consult 511NJ.org for up-to-date construction news, alternate routes, and travel advisories throughout the duration of the project.
