Sinkhole and Its Immediate Impact

The sinkhole has forced commuters on the eastbound side of Route 80 to divert to alternate routes, notably Routes 15 and 46, resulting in congestion and frustration among drivers.

Vasilios Staikos, owner of the Red Hut Diner located near the detours, expressed concern over the impact on his establishment. “They’re coming from everywhere,” he noted, referring to the influx of alternative route travelers, “but unfortunately, those on the highway aren’t stopping for a meal.”

Current Traffic Conditions and Notable Quotes

Governor Phil Murphy provided an update regarding the ongoing situation, stating, “We were hoping tests would show that the westbound lanes could open a couple of those maybe as early as this week. That’s not going to happen unfortunately.” Repairs may extend several weeks, affecting daily commutes and local businesses significantly.

Business Community Challenges

Vasilios further explained, “We lose what we have, forget to get the new clients,” emphasizing how extended delays diminish the chances of capturing new customers who might otherwise stop. Local establishments are struggling, despite the unpredictable influx of traffic.

Nearby, Rockaway Townsquare is actively promoting discounts to lure in shoppers, reminding patrons that they are open for business despite current disruptions.

Update on Repairs and Government Assistance

Governor Murphy acknowledged the dual challenge faced by commuters and local businesses: “One is commuters who are getting crushed. Hopefully the NJ Transit piece can play a small role. The other is small businesses in the area getting crushed.”

Efforts from the Small Business Administration are underway, focusing on providing low-interest loans to affected businesses. Furthermore, the state’s Economic Development Authority is also exploring ways to assist local economies.

Background and Ongoing Concerns

This incident is the latest in a series that began with the detection of the first sinkhole on February 10, which led to the closure of the eastbound lanes. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) attributes the occurrences to unstable ground conditions stemming from voids left by old mining activities.

As work continues to secure the area, the state is even considering legal options, given that the highway infrastructure was built on potentially unstable ground.

Understanding the Situation

With the NJDOT’s promise of ongoing work, area traffic and small businesses are left in a state of uncertainty. To stay informed about traffic updates and alternate routes, commuters can access a live traffic map.