Somerset Times

(March 28, 2025) Bernardsville, NJ – Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. has urged New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to request an official disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) due to economic disruptions from the I-80 sinkhole-related road closures. The approval of this declaration would make federal assistance available to small businesses struggling in the affected areas.

The I-80 closure has led to significant economic challenges for businesses in Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties. Congressman Kean received reports from local businesses and constituents about the hardships caused by the closure.

Kean recently visited the site of the sinkholes alongside U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Governor Murphy to review the repair work by the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The visit underscored the severe congestion and its adverse impact on businesses.

For small businesses to access federal relief programs, governors must request an SBA disaster declaration. Congressman Kean emphasized the urgency of this action, stating, “Small businesses are struggling due to the I-80 closure. I appreciate Governor Murphy’s decision to declare a State of Emergency earlier this month, but we must act now to secure crucial federal resources. Delaying is not an option – local businesses are at risk of deep revenue losses, reduced operating hours, and possible layoffs. We need action now.”

The SBA expressed its support for Kean's efforts. Matt Coleman, the SBA Regional Administrator, commented, “The SBA appreciates Congressman Kean’s leadership on this issue. The U.S. Small Business Administration stands ready to assist impacted small business owners affected by the disruptions caused by the sinkholes along the I-80 corridor in New Jersey, if and when a disaster declaration is sought by Governor Murphy.”

The letter Congressman Kean sent to Governor Murphy is available for review.