TRENTON, NJ – Assemblywoman Aura Dunn and Sen. Anthony M. Bucco introduced legislation on Monday to minimize the impacts of I-80 sinkhole-related closures to businesses and workers in Morris County. The sinkholes, which continue to be discovered, have increased traffic, delaying the start of schools in Wharton and caused detours affecting local businesses.
The latest sinkhole on I-80 – the third since December – measures approximately 15 feet by 15 feet and was discovered while workers carried out repairs on a different sinkhole. The new sinkhole closed I-80 in both directions, forcing traffic to be detoured to local roads at the Route 15 junction.
“Transportation officials have been diligently working to stabilize the highway and make the necessary repairs to get traffic safely moving again, but unfortunately, our commuters, local businesses, and employees are paying the price every day construction shuts down this area of I-80. The only way to turn this around for them is to do a 180 and focus on getting them the support they need while the engineers and other experts tend to the sinkholes,” said Dunn (R-Morris) who has been the driving force behind the “Road to Relief” bill package.
The bills in the package provide financial assistance and tax relief for businesses and people impacted by the I-80 construction. The first bill would create a $1 million grant program through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to address the increased costs of transportation. The second measure provides tax credits for small businesses that lost revenue and their essential workers who lost wages.
“In light of the significant challenges created by the ongoing sinkhole crisis on Interstate 80, these bills are designed to deliver crucial financial relief to businesses and residents facing hardship caused by such public highway disruptions,” said Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris). “These measures are focused on helping our communities recover, rebuild, and regain stability, ensuring that those affected receive the support they need to overcome this difficult period.”
According to reports, the I-80 closures have delayed the start of the school day for Wharton students, impacted sales at local restaurants and even forced one to close on Mondays.
“While an open and safe I-80 is the ultimate goal, it is hard to guarantee a timeline. My legislation gives the local businesses and workers a guarantee of recourse amid so much uncertainty. It provides them with direct financial relief,” Dunn said.