MORRIS COUNTY — The permanent long-term repair of I-80 eastbound is progressing in Wharton, Morris County. In addition, I-80 westbound testing has been completed and revealed a significant void under the left lane, requiring all westbound lanes to remain closed and detoured at Exit 34B until it is repaired.
If everything progresses as planned, the repair of two lanes on I-80 eastbound will be completed and reopened in approximately seven weeks, with the remaining lanes expected to reopen soon after.
The final design of the I-80 westbound repairs is expected to be completed next week, with westbound repairs beginning thereafter. To expedite repairs, two separate crews will work concurrently—one on the eastbound side and one on the westbound side—to expedite repairs. If everything progresses as planned, two lanes on I-80 westbound will be completed and reopened in approximately five weeks, with the remaining lanes expected to reopen soon after.
Crews will continue working 24 hours a day until repairs are completed and the highway is reopened.
“As we continue to work 24/7 to repair I-80, unfortunately, testing revealed another significant void in the left lane of I-80 westbound,” Governor Phil Murphy said. “As we have said since these issues began, safety is our top priority, and we must ensure that the roadway is safe for motorists before we can reopen. I am confident in Commissioner Fran O’Connor and his team’s plan to repair and reopen this critical roadway.”
Last week, Governor Murphy also announced that NJ TRANSIT is offering a 50% discount on roundtrip travel for those affected by the ongoing emergency repair work on I-80. The 50% discount offer will remain in effect for the repairs and aims to provide an alternative travel option while alleviating congestion in the impacted area. The Governor also declared a State of Emergency in Morris County earlier this month to request emergency relief federal funding for repairs.
“The good news is the permanent long-term repair on I-80 eastbound is progressing. If no other problems arise, we expect to reopen at least two lanes in the eastbound direction by mid-May,” NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “Unfortunately, discovering another significant void requires I-80 westbound to remain closed to ensure public safety. Two westbound lanes should reopen in early May if repairs continue as planned.
“NJDOT continues to work with the New Jersey State Police and the local communities to make adjustments to improve mobility in the neighboring communities. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of residents, businesses, and motorists as we work together while repairs are being made. We encourage motorists to consider all alternatives when traveling through the area – taking NJ TRANSIT, working from home if possible, or adjusting your work schedule to avoid rush hour.”
“Today’s update from the NJDOT provided key insights into the I-80 situation. The westbound lanes remain closed, but the NJDOT is advancing a permanent solution on both sides, aiming to complete the westbound side in 5 weeks and 7 weeks on the eastbound side in seven weeks. This is subject to change as the repairs continue,” Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) said. “Additionally, I met with the NJEDA and, along with my colleagues in the 25th Legislative District, are working to develop a grant program for businesses affected by the I-80 shutdown. I stressed that this program should mirror COVID-19 relief, which the NJEDA is responsive to and we expect more details by mid-next week. The NJEDA will be in Wharton on Monday to further assist the business community.
“I understand the frustration of commuters and businesses, and I truly appreciate everyone’s patience. My office stands ready to assist if anyone has questions or concerns or requires additional help.”
“I appreciate the NJDOT’s continued transparency and the steady progress. While this won’t be a quick fix, it is why I am continuing to push for ways we can support the residents and small businesses bearing the brunt of this disruption,” Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn said. “I also want to thank everyone for their patience as the state works toward a long-term solution we can all have faith in.”
“The public has been given timelines for completion of work,” Assemblyman Christian Barranco said. “My legislative team will continue to monitor the progress made.”
NJDOT has created an I-80 project web page to inform the public about the progress of repairs. The page also provides information about detours, alternate routes, and other options to minimize traffic congestion in the area.
A new I-80 travel time page has been added to www.511NJ.org and has current travel times on the detour routes and alternate routes.
Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information. For NJDOT news, follow us on X (Twitter) @NewJerseyDOT, on the NJDOT Facebook page, or Instagram @NewJersey.DOT.
