PHILADELPHIA, PA — Motorists navigating Interstate 95 in Northeast Philadelphia should prepare for significant delays next week as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) undertakes paving operations as part of the ongoing reconstruction of the Cottman Avenue Interchange. This essential work is scheduled to occur during nighttime hours in an effort to minimize disruption, yet drivers are warned to anticipate backups.
Starting Tuesday, April 16, lane closures will affect both directions of I-95, causing potential slowdowns for those traveling through the area. Southbound traffic will experience a left lane closure from 7:00 PM, escalating to a double lane closure from 11:00 PM until 5:00 AM the following morning, stretching between the Academy Road and Betsy Ross Bridge interchanges. Meanwhile, northbound I-95 will see a left lane closure in place from 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM between the Betsy Ross Bridge and Academy Road interchanges.
These closures are critical for PennDOT’s contractors to safely proceed with the placement of the concrete deck on the inner section of the new southbound bridge. The operation marks a significant phase in the interchange’s reconstruction, aiming for enhanced safety and traffic flow upon completion.
The project has already seen the completion of the outer sections of the new bridge last November. Following that milestone, traffic was rerouted onto these finished sections, allowing the focus to shift to the center section of the bridge, with work anticipated to continue into mid-2024.
Given the expected impact on traffic, PennDOT advises drivers to allot additional time for travel through the affected stretch of I-95. With the work being weather dependent, the schedule may be subject to change.
Drivers can check current road conditions by visiting the MyChesCo Traffic Center. Stay updated on the latest news and information from MyChesCo with our free newsletter. Follow MyChesCo on Twitter at twitter.com/MyChesCo and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/MyChesCo.
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