PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia motorists, prepare for a series of travel restrictions that are set to impact several key highways across the city. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a comprehensive schedule for bridge inspections on Interstate I-76, I-95, and other state highways, aiming to ensure the safety and integrity of these critical structures.
The inspection process, beginning Monday, March 25, and running through Thursday, March 28, will necessitate various lane closures across notable bridges and ramps, potentially leading to traffic slowdowns during key daytime hours. With closures planned from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on most days, drivers should anticipate adjustments to their usual routes and travel times.
Specifically, the George C. Platt Memorial Bridge (Route 291) will see a right lane closure on its eastbound deck between the I-95 South and I-76 interchanges at the start of the week. This will be closely followed by a right lane closure on westbound I-76 at the US 1 (Roosevelt Expressway) Interchange on Tuesday, March 26, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Midweek, on Wednesday, March 27, alternating lane closures are scheduled on the University Avenue ramp to westbound I-76, posing additional challenges for motorists navigating this area. The inspection activities will continue into Thursday, March 28, with a morning right lane closure on northbound I-95 between the I-76 East/Walt Whitman Bridge and Columbus Boulevard interchanges, and an afternoon right lane closure at the I-95 North and I-76 East/Walt Whitman Bridge Interchange. The week wraps up with a right lane closure on the westbound I-76 ramp to 30th Street on both Thursday and Friday.
Given the potential for significant slowdowns, PennDOT advises drivers to allow extra time when traveling through the affected areas. The timing of these inspections, squarely within daytime hours, underscores the need for careful planning and patience among those impacted.
These inspections are part of PennDOT’s ongoing effort to maintain the safety and functionality of the state’s bridge infrastructure. Conducted at least once every two years, these evaluations play a crucial role in identifying any necessary maintenance or repairs, ensuring that these vital transport links remain safe for public use.
As the city braces for the upcoming disruptions, motorists are encouraged to stay informed about the specific timing and locations of closures, adjusting their travel plans accordingly to navigate around the expected slowdowns.
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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