Stretch Of I-40 Closed After Sinkhole Found
Posted November 17, 2006 10:43 a.m. EST
GARNER, N.C. — A stretch of Interstate 40 near Garner was closed Friday evening after a 6-inch sinkhole was discovered on the roadway.
Department of Transportation officials said the hole was discovered about 7:40 p.m. in the eastbound lane of I-40 at mile-marker 308. The stretch of I-40 East
from U.S. 70 to N.C. 42 in Garner
were shut down as both DOT and Raleigh workers repaired the damage.
According to DOT officials, I-40 eastbound traffic is being rerouted onto U.S. 70 to NC 50 to N.C. 42 and then back to I-40 East. There is no word yet on when the stretch of interstate will reopen. Travelers are encourage to call 511 or check the state's
traveler's information Web site
for updates.
Officials said that utility work in the area may have caused the sinkhole to open on the roadway. Despite the relatively small size of the hole, authorities said it could potentially endanger vehicles traveling at a high rate of speed on the interstate, necessitating the closure.