PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia’s bustling interstate is bracing for a significant slowdown next Thursday as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) implements crucial lane and ramp closures on northbound Interstate 95 in Center City. This disruption is part of the ambitious $329 million CAP project, aimed at transforming the urban landscape by replacing and expanding the covered area over the interstate, fostering enhanced pedestrian and multimodal connections between Center City and the waterfront.
On Thursday, April 4, from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM the following morning, travelers on northbound I-95 should expect a left lane closure stretching from South Street to Market Street. This adjustment will accommodate the relocation of construction equipment, with intermittent traffic paces further slowing the flow of vehicles through this central artery of Philadelphia.
Adding to the complexity of the day’s travel, the northbound I-95 on-ramp at Lombard Circle will also shut down during the same hours. Motorists aiming to join northbound I-95 will be rerouted to an alternative on-ramp from Columbus Boulevard, just south of Lombard Street. This detour is expected to complicate commutes and contribute to the anticipated traffic congestion.
PennDOT has issued a warning to drivers planning to navigate through or around these work zones: prepare for significant backups and delays. The scale of the construction work, part of a broader effort to rejuvenate the city’s connection to its waterfront, means disruptions are unavoidable. All scheduled closures and activities hinge on favorable weather conditions and may see adjustments as necessary.
The CAP project, beyond its immediate impact on traffic patterns, promises long-term benefits for the city. By replacing and extending the cap over I-95 and Columbus Boulevard, the initiative will pave the way for the creation of a new Park at Penn’s Landing and a signature bridge at South Street. These additions aim to seamlessly connect cyclists and pedestrians to the Delaware River Trail, enriching the urban environment and enhancing accessibility to the waterfront.
As Thursday approaches, residents and commuters are encouraged to plan their routes carefully, allowing extra time for travel or considering alternative modes of transportation.
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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