DOT: 2 eastbound lanes on I-80 now reopened in Wharton following monthslong delays
Following the reopening, the Route 34 detour was removed, according to DOT officials.
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All the headaches caused by detours and delays on Interstate 80 could soon come to an end after months of closures.
Two eastbound lanes of I-80 in Wharton reopened around 10 p.m. Wednesday. Following the reopening, the Route 34 detour was removed, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation.
Paving was completed on Tuesday for the eastbound lanes. Transportation officials say two westbound lanes of I-80, which were shut down in March, are scheduled to reopen next week. They expect all lanes to be open again for use on June 25.
DOT officials remind drivers to slow down when approaching detours and work zones. A 40 mph speed limit is in place through the zone.
Lawmakers who have been working to help local stores and restaurants that lost business due to road closures issued statements on Wednesday night following the reopening.
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“Reopening two lanes on I-80 eastbound is a major milestone and the first step in restoring full mobility on this critical interstate highway,” Gov. Phil Murphy wrote.
“I’m happy to see that we are finally nearing the end of this crisis with the scheduled reopening of two eastbound lanes on I-80 later tonight,” wrote Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco.
“Progress on I-80 is a welcome step forward for our residents, commuters, and small businesses who have shown remarkable patience throughout this disruption,” wrote Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn.
“With two eastbound lanes opening today after all the headaches endured by the people and work and effort made by NJDOT, the Contractors, and workers on-site, we are finally at a moment of progress,” wrote Assemblyman Christian Barranco.
Parts of I-80 have been closed ever since multiple sinkholes developed on the highway. Officials say these holes were caused by abandoned mines located throughout Morris County.
