Traffic Chaos in Morris County: Sinkhole Repairs, Construction, Traffic Delays

Westbound lanes now expected to partially reopen by late May as sonic drilling slows progress near Route 15 bridge in Morris County.

WHARTON, NJ – The long-term emergency repairs on Interstate 80 westbound in Wharton, Morris County, are facing delays, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT). While the overall project remains on schedule to fully reopen all lanes in both directions by June 25, work to reopen two lanes on the westbound side—originally expected by May 4—will now extend to the end of May.

The delay is primarily due to the extended duration of sonic drilling operations near the Route 15 bridge. This specialized drilling method, which produces less vibration, is necessary for the installation of micropiles. These foundational supports are a key component in stabilizing the structure and must be completed before excavation and the pouring of new concrete slabs can begin. NJDOT has indicated that the installation of all micropiles is expected to be completed within the coming week.

On the eastbound side of I-80, progress is continuing as planned. Excavation work is nearing completion, and crews are preparing to begin concrete pouring next week. Two eastbound lanes are projected to reopen in mid-May.

To expedite the overall project, NJDOT has deployed two dedicated construction crews—one for each direction. The teams have been working continuously, including over the Easter holiday, and are maintaining a 24-hour schedule in an effort to meet the summer reopening deadline. NJDOT also stated it is evaluating opportunities to make up time wherever feasible.

Motorists in the area continue to experience congestion, with all I-80 lanes at Exit 34 (NJ 15) in Wharton currently closed and traffic being rerouted. As of mid-morning, delays of 5 to 10 minutes were reported on I-80 and nearby roadways, including NJ 15 and US 46.

To keep the public informed, NJDOT has launched a dedicated I-80 project page providing updates on repair progress, detours, and alternate travel routes. Additionally, a real-time travel time feature specific to detour routes has been added to www.511NJ.org.

Commuters are encouraged to monitor NJDOT’s traffic site for the latest construction updates and current travel conditions.

Ongoing Roadwork Compounds Regional Traffic

In addition to the emergency repairs, several pre-scheduled construction projects are contributing to widespread travel disruptions across the region:

• I-80 Eastbound: Right lane closed near Exit 27 (NJ 183/US 206) in Mount Olive Township until 1:59 p.m.

• I-287 Southbound: Left lane closed between Exit 41 (I-80) in Parsippany-Troy Hills and Exit 30 (North Maple Avenue) in Bernards Township until 3:00 p.m.

• NJ 53 (Denville Township): All lanes shifted south of I-80 and right shoulder closed through 3:00 p.m.

• US 46 (Various Sections): Multiple lane and shoulder closures in both directions through Montville, Mountain Lakes, and Denville Townships until 3:00 p.m.

• NJ 23 (Butler to Pequannock): Right lane closed in both directions at various points until late afternoon.

• US 202 and I-280: Lane closures near I-287 in Montville and I-80 in Parsippany are also in effect through 3:00 p.m.

Drivers are urged to monitor real-time traffic updates and use caution when traveling through work zones.