Traffic headaches continue in Wharton due to sinkhole on I-80 East

This is the second time in recent months that drivers in the area are dealing with detours and delays, with the previous sinkhole forming in December and taking four days to repair.

The new sinkhole has opened up less than 100 feet away from the previous one, and it's still unclear what caused it. An expert says it could be related to a nearby abandoned mine, recent earthquakes, or even drought.

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,
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

Variable message signs will provide advance notification to motorists of traffic pattern changes associated with the work.

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