Southbound traffic on Interstate 95 in Philadelphia is set to experience significant disruptions as overnight lane closures begin next week. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that these closures will facilitate a long-term traffic shift due to a major bridge repair project along one of the region’s busiest corridors.
The closure schedule is set for January 13 to January 16, 2024. Each night, one lane will close from 21:00 to 00:00, followed by a double lane closure from 00:00 to 05:00. PennDOT cautioned that significant backups and delays are expected during these hours. By 05:00 on January 17, crews aim to have a new long-term traffic configuration in place, which is anticipated to remain through late May.
Details of the Bridge Repair Project
This construction is part of a larger $37.4 million federally funded initiative focused on essential repairs to interstate bridges. The work aims to enhance safety, mobility, and structural integrity along I-95. Specific tasks include repairing deteriorated bridge decks, steel superstructure components, prestressed concrete beams, and various bridge railings and guiderails.
Additionally, the project involves replacing expansion joints and deck seals, as well as undertaking substructure repairs on bearings and concrete elements. Other improvements will include the cleaning and repainting of 11 overhead steel sign structures, along with upgrading existing roadway lighting to energy-efficient LED luminaires.
IEW Construction Group, Inc. from Hamilton, New Jersey, is the general contractor overseeing these extensive repairs. With the upcoming overnight closures leading to a months-long traffic shift on this heavily traveled portion of I-95, motorists are advised to plan their routes in advance and remain informed about changing conditions.
Staying Informed During Construction
For real-time traffic updates, lane closure alerts, and travel planning tools in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas, it is recommended that drivers visit the MyChesCo Traffic Center before setting out. The project aims to maintain three lanes of through traffic at all times within the work zone, mitigating potential disruption as much as possible.
As the repair project progresses, PennDOT encourages drivers to stay alert and prepared for ongoing changes to traffic patterns. These repairs are critical to ensuring the continued safety and functionality of one of the region’s key transportation routes.
