Overnight Lane Closures Begin on I-95 South for Bridge Repairs

Drivers using southbound Interstate 95 (I-95) in Philadelphia should prepare for significant overnight lane closures beginning January 13, 2024. These closures are part of a long-term traffic shift related to crucial bridge repairs aimed at enhancing safety and structural integrity along one of the region’s busiest highways.

Details of the Lane Closures

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that the closures will occur overnight from January 13 through January 16. Each night, a single lane will close from 21:00 to 00:00, followed by a double lane closure from 00:00 to 05:00. Motorists can expect significant backups and delays during this construction period, which is weather dependent. By 05:00 on January 17, crews are anticipated to implement a new long-term traffic configuration.

This revised traffic pattern will be in effect until late May 2024, allowing for critical bridge repairs while maintaining three lanes of through traffic at all times in the work zone. The project is essential for addressing the deteriorating conditions of key infrastructure in the region.

Scope of the Repair Project

The ongoing work is part of a substantial $37.4 million federally funded initiative aimed at high-priority repairs to interstate bridges. The project will focus on various elements, including the repair of bridge decks, steel superstructure components, prestressed concrete beams, and bridge railings. Additionally, crews will replace expansion joints and deck seals while performing necessary substructure repairs on bearings and concrete elements.

Improvements will also include the cleaning and repainting of 11 overhead steel sign structures and upgrading existing roadway lighting to energy-efficient LED luminaires. The general contractor for this ambitious project is IEW Construction Group, Inc., based in Hamilton, New Jersey.

As these overnight closures transition into months of long-term traffic adjustments, PennDOT urges drivers to plan their routes accordingly and stay informed about changing conditions. For real-time traffic updates, lane closure alerts, and travel planning tools in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas, motorists are encouraged to visit the MyChesCo Traffic Center.

As the project progresses, the importance of maintaining safety and mobility on this vital corridor remains a top priority for both state officials and commuters alike.