Sinkhole on I-80 in Wharton caused by collapse of abandoned mine shaft

On By Littum

Officials have revealed that the massive sinkhole on I-80 in Wharton was caused by the collapse of an abandoned mine shaft.

The eastbound side of I-80 remains closed and detoured for sinkhole repairs.

The sinkhole was discovered just before 8 a.m. Thursday. It is located in the right shoulder in the right lane of I-80.


While emergency repairs are underway to fix it, the New Jersey Department of Transportation is encouraging motorists to take alternate routes to get around, such as Route 46 or Route 15.

On Thursday, I-80 eastbound was closed after exit 34 in Wharton, near mile marker 34. Crews responded immediately and are on scene continuing to evaluate the situation, determine the extent of the damage and stabilize the area to design a repair.

The DOT says the highway will be closed until further notice and will not provide a timeline for reopening due to the size of the sinkhole and weather conditions this weekend.