Somerset Times

Congressman Tom Kean, who has been serving in the U.S. Congress representing New Jersey’s 7th district since 2023, recently addressed the ongoing crisis on Interstate 80 (I-80) through a series of tweets. Kean, who succeeded Tom Malinowski and previously served in the New Jersey General Assembly and Senate, has been actively involved in seeking solutions for residents affected by disruptions due to highway issues.

On March 22, 2025, Congressman Kean expressed his support for NJ Transit fare discounts as a temporary relief measure for those impacted by the I-80 crisis. He noted that he had advocated for this alternative during his last visit to I-80 and emphasized that these discounts would provide "a small measure of relief while we work to permanently fix this highway." "The NJ Transit fare discounts are a welcomed help as we work to address the crisis on I-80."

Two days later, on March 24, 2025, Kean shared details of his recent site visit with Secretary Duffy and Governor Murphy at the I-80 sinkhole location in Wharton. During this visit, they received updates from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and advocated for urgent repairs. Kean highlighted ongoing concerns from residents about how the situation is affecting their daily lives and reiterated his commitment to securing federal resources for necessary repairs. "I joined @SecDuffy and @GovMurphy at the I-80 sinkhole site in Wharton on Saturday to receive updates from @NewJerseyDOT and push for urgent repairs."

Later that day, Congressman Kean visited local businesses affected by the highway closure alongside Secretary Duffy, Governor Murphy, and Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. At Townsquare Diner in Wharton, they listened to business owners' concerns regarding the impact of I-80's closure on their operations. This visit underscored Kean's focus on addressing both infrastructure challenges and economic impacts faced by local communities along I-80. "When I talk about the main street businesses along I-80 that are hurting due to the highway closure, this is what I mean."