State DOT releases timeline for expected reopening of I-80
The department says they expect the full restoration of all lanes in both directions by June 25.
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The New Jersey Department of Transportation has released a clearer timeline of the expected reopening of parts of Interstate 80 after emergency sinkhole repairs in Wharton.
The DOT says that two westbound lanes are expected to reopen by May 4. Then, two eastbound lanes will reopen by May 18.
The department says it expects the full restoration of all lanes in both directions by June 25.
“The goal is hopefully, it’s even sooner,” said Republican Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. “But it’s looking good. It’s looking like we’ll be able to know when we can get it to be completed.”
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DOT officials say two separate crews are working on each side of the highway 24 hours a day. Among their work is installing a monitoring system for any future movement underground. Dunn says she’s pushing for testing in other nearby areas that could be affected by similar abandoned mineshafts.
“The public deserves that,” Dunn said. “There’s tremendous concern, so that has to be examined.”
Dunn also said there’s expected to be grant relief announced soon from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for business owners impacted by the highway closures.
