I-80 sinkhole causes detours and delays for second day in New Jersey

WHARTON, New Jersey (PIX11) – New Jersey commuters can expect a second day of delays on Interstate 80 on Friday, as emergency crews continue to address a massive sinkhole.

Drivers heading eastbound on the I-80 are advised to take Exit 34 to Route 15 or use Route 46 eastbound for alternate service, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

Repair crews are continuing to access the 40-foot sinkhole that swallowed up a portion of the I-80 on Thursday morning. Officials say construction teams must first design a repair before completing the fix. 

The timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors, the DOT website says. Drivers are encouraged to check the website regularly for updates and information on detours. 

The cause of the sinkhole has not yet been determined however residents say there are mine shafts in the area and that sinkholes have opened in the past. 

A state geological map does show several abandoned iron mines in the area dating back to the 1800s, including the old Mount Pleasant mine, which operated about 25-50 feet away from the Wharton sinkhole, according to state records.

PIX11 asked DOT officials about this however they did not have any information beyond the traffic advisory.