‘Depression’ closes Route 80 in NJ near area of December sinkhole

Key Takeaways:

• Route 80 east in Wharton, NJ, is closed due to a newly discovered road depression.
• Traffic is being diverted between Exits 34 and 35, causing significant delays.
• The closure is near the site of a 40-foot sinkhole that occurred in December.
• An abandoned mineshaft was previously identified as the cause of the December sinkhole.
• NJ DOT is investigating the cause of the depression and assessing necessary repairs.

Traffic Halted as Route 80 East Closes Over Road Depression in Wharton

The morning commute in Wharton, New Jersey, took an unexpected turn when a “depression” was discovered in the center lane of Route 80 east, prompting officials to close the highway out of caution. The incident occurred around 6:45 a.m., causing significant disruptions in one of the state’s major thoroughfares.

Discovery and Immediate Action

According to Steve Shapiro, spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJ DOT), the depression was spotted in the center lane near Exit 34 (Main Street). “Out of an abundance of caution, the highway was closed and detoured,” Shapiro stated. All eastbound traffic is being diverted off at Exit 34 and allowed back on at Exit 35 (Route 15).

Impact on Traffic

The sudden closure has led to several miles of near standstill traffic approaching Exit 34. Commuters faced extended delays as crews worked to assess the situation. Bob Williams of New Jersey Traffic North reported that crews were seen taking pictures and measurements of what appeared to be a “divot” in the center lane.

Connection to December’s Sinkhole

This incident comes just months after a significant sinkhole disrupted travel in the same area. On December 26, a 40-foot by 40-foot sinkhole opened in the right lane and shoulder of Route 80 east. The cause was determined to be an abandoned mineshaft beneath the highway. The road was closed for four days as crews undertook extensive repairs, which included using wire mesh, stone aggregate, and multiple layers of asphalt to reconstruct the damaged area.

Possible Causes

The proximity of the current depression to the previous sinkhole has raised concerns about underlying geological issues. Official state geology maps indicate numerous abandoned iron mines in the Wharton area dating back to the 1800s. These historical structures may contribute to ground instability beneath the highway.

NJ DOT’s Response and Next Steps

NJ DOT crews are on-site evaluating the depression to determine the necessary repairs. “It is too early to speculate on the cause of the depression,” Shapiro mentioned. The road will remain closed until further notice to ensure the safety of motorists.

Conclusion

As investigations continue, commuters are advised to seek alternate routes and remain alert for updates from transportation officials. The recurring road issues along Route 80 east highlight the challenges of maintaining infrastructure in areas with historical mining activity. Authorities emphasize that safety remains the top priority as they work to address the problem.