Dunn Reports Progress on Route 80: June 25 Completion Date Still Possible

Please see the latest news release from Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn (R-25th Dist.):

Dear Residents,

I want to share the latest updates following my most recent call with the New Jersey Department of Transportation regarding the sinkhole repairs on I-80 Eastbound in Wharton.

There is positive progress to report: work on the eastbound side is moving along nicely, and we remain on schedule to reopen two eastbound lanes by mid-May. Although repairs on the westbound side are taking slightly longer than initially anticipated — with two lanes now expected to reopen by May 31st — the overall project remains on track for the full reopening of all lanes by June 25th, weather and conditions permitting.

The DOT continues to work carefully and deliberately to ensure the safety and stability of this critical corridor. Micropiling is underway, and while it has taken longer than expected due to challenging ground conditions, this extra time is essential to making sure the repair is strong, lasting, and secure. Once completed, more than three feet of reinforced concrete will be poured over the area, along with a sophisticated sensor system designed to continuously monitor the site.

In fact, the DOT has already deployed a 24/7 monitoring system, and their engineers have expressed strong confidence in the technology now in place. Public safety is — and will continue to be — the highest priority.

Looking Ahead: A Plan for the Future:

In addition to overseeing the immediate repairs, I am taking proactive steps to ensure that we better manage long-term infrastructure risks tied to New Jersey’s historic mining activity.

To that end, I have requested the drafting of legislation to establish a New Jersey Mine Reclamation Program — modeled in part on successful federal efforts and existing state programs like gas main and lead pipe replacement initiatives.

While New Jersey's current mine safety laws focus primarily on active mining operations, there is no comprehensive, statewide mine reclamation program to systematically address the hazards posed by abandoned mines.

My legislation would fill that gap, creating a dedicated process to identify, stabilize, and remediate sites that pose risks to roadways, water systems, and public safety.

This is about applying lessons learned from I-80 to protect our communities moving forward.

I will keep you updated as this initiative develops and as work progresses on the highway itself.

I am grateful to our residents and businesses for their patience and understanding. With continued collaboration and focus, we are moving closer to safely reopening this essential roadway for our community — and laying the groundwork for a safer, stronger future.