Westbound I-80 closed until further notice, according to NJ DOT
Some legislation has been introduced to help businesses and municipalities impacted.
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UPDATE 3/21 10:24 A.M.: The New Jersey Department of Transportation says I-80 westbound will be closed until further notice.
Original story below:
We are learning more about what's underneath Interstate 80 in Wharton as commuters deal with another day of heavy delays.
Assemblywoman Aura Dunn says the presence of a mine approximately 200 to 300 feet beneath the roadway is identified as the central cause of the sinkholes.
MORE: Wharton businesses, residents face long-term challenges from repeated I-80 sinkholes
Dunn also says that the newest sinkhole is 15 feet by 15 feet and about 20-25 feet deep. She says the sinkhole has been stabilized.
This is the third sinkhole on I-80 in four months.
All I-80 traffic in Wharton is being detoured onto Rt 15 North, U-turn and take Rt 15 South onto I-80 East or West.
MORE: All I-80 traffic detoured in Wharton, causing a traffic nightmare for commuters
The crossover lane that has been in the works is on hold until more testing on the westbound side can be done, once complete the plan may be reconsidered.
Some legislation has been introduced to help businesses and municipalities that are impacted.
