December 27, 2024
By NJDOT
Trenton, NJ − (Highpoint Digest) − – I-80 eastbound remains closed and detoured for emergency sinkhole repairs in
Wharton, Morris County. Motorists should expect delays and are advised to use alternate
routes.
This morning, Thursday, December 26, I-80 eastbound was closed after Exit 34 in Wharton, near
mile-post 34, due to a sinkhole in the right shoulder and right lane. NJDOT crews responded
immediately and are on site continuing to evaluate the situation, determine the extent of the
damage, and stabilize the area in order to design a repair. The cause of the 40-foot by 40-foot
sinkhole has not yet been determined.
I-80 eastbound will remain closed until further notice. Motorists are advised to seek
alternate routes, such as Route 46, or use the following detour that remains in place:
Route 46 eastbound Alternate Route:
• Motorists on I-80 eastbound are advised to take Exit 28/Route 46 eastbound to Route
10/Ledgewood/Lake Hopatcong, which is several miles before the closure
• Continue on Route 46 eastbound
• Stay in the left two lanes to turn left at the traffic signal to continue on Route 46 eastbound
• Turn left onto Route 15 northbound in Dover back to I-80
or
• Continue on Route 46 eastbound for about 12 miles and stay left for I-80 eastbound
I-80 eastbound Detour:
• Motorists on I-80 eastbound are being directed to take Exit 34 to Route
15/Wharton/Dover/Sparta
• Stay right following signs for Route 15/Jefferson/Dover/Sparta
• Stay in the left lane on North Main Street to Route 15 southbound/To I-80/Dover
• Merge onto Route 15 southbound
• Stay left to take the exit to I-80 eastbound
2
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are
encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates
and real-time travel information. For NJDOT news follow us on X (Twitter) @NewJerseyDOT, on
the NJDOT Facebook page, or Instagram @NewJersey.DOT.
Image Credit: CBS New York
