Drivers headed home Tuesday were advised to steer clear of I-287 due to emergency roadwork that caused backups of at least five miles.

According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), the delays were due to emergency bridge repairs on I-287 southbound near Exit 4, Durham Avenue, in South Plainfield. A routine inspection revealed several holes on the bridge and its deck.

The repair work took several hours to complete, but DOT officials say the holes are now fixed and safe for travel. The two lanes that were closed have been reopened, and traffic has returned to normal.

Related InformationNJ Department of Transportation