Kean Calls on Governor Murphy to Submit Disaster Declaration for Small Businesses Affected by I-80 Closure

(March 28, 2025) Bernardsville, NJ - Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) sent a letter to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy urging him to submit an official disaster declaration request to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in response to the I-80 sinkhole-related road closures. If submitted and approved, this SBA declaration would unlock federal assistance for qualifying small businesses that have suffered economic hardship due to the closure. Congressman Kean has received outreach from impacted businesses and constituents throughout Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties.

Last weekend, Congressman Kean joined U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Governor Murphy at the site of the I-80 sinkholes to assess the New Jersey Department of Transportation's repair efforts. During their visit, they examined the severe congestion caused by the closure and its significant impact on local businesses.

Under SBA guidelines, state governors must formally request an SBA disaster declaration before affected small businesses can apply for certain federal relief programs.

"Small businesses are struggling due to the I-80 closure," said Congressman Kean. "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 appreciates Congressman Kean's leadership on this issue," said SBA Regional Administrator Matt Coleman. "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 full text of Congressman Kean's letter to Governor Murphy is available HERE.

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