News Summary
Philadelphia is undergoing significant infrastructure improvements with the $268 million I-95/BS2 project. This initiative focuses on reconstructing and widening I-95 to enhance traffic flow and safety. Active work includes the construction of a new southbound viaduct and multiple retaining walls. Additionally, stormwater drainage and utility upgrades are being undertaken to support future improvements. The overall project aims to improve access and reduce congestion in Northeast Philadelphia, with completion expected in 2028.
Construction Begins on Major I-95/BS2 Project in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is currently experiencing significant roadwork as part of a large-scale infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation in the Northeast section of the city. The $268 million I-95/BS2 project is underway, focusing on reconstructing and widening the interstate between Margaret Street and Carver Street. The project is designed to enhance traffic flow, safety, and infrastructure resilience in the area.
Active Work on the Northbound and Southbound Viaducts
One of the key components of this project is the construction of a new southbound viaduct at the I-95 Bridge Street Interchange. Currently, construction crews are actively working on the deck of this new viaduct, with efforts centered on placing reinforcing steel, known as rebar, and preparing the surface for paving. The new viaduct will extend over Bridge Street, Tacony, and several other surface streets, connecting seamlessly to new at-grade paving sections.
Progress on Retaining Walls and Support Structures
Supporting structures are also progressing, with two of the four planned retaining walls completed. The remaining two walls are in various stages of construction along the southbound side of the interchange. These walls are crucial to supporting embankments that will carry a continuous fourth lane along this stretch of I-95, as well as a new off-ramp at James Street. The retaining walls underpin the stability of the roadway and are integral to accommodating additional traffic lanes.
Stormwater and Utility Infrastructure
Alongside highway reconstruction, utility work is active to support future roadway improvements. A new stormwater drainage system is being installed in advance of paving the southbound lanes and building the off-ramp. Additionally, work on underground utilities includes the installation of a new water main under Tacony Street; sewer line construction and utility work involving subcontractors such as PECO are also ongoing. These efforts will enhance the area’s infrastructure capacity and reliability.
Developments in the Road Network and Future Connections
The project includes notable improvements to the local roadway network. A new off-ramp will replace the currently closed southbound ramp to James Street, directing drivers to a new signalized interchange on Tacony Street. This new configuration aims to streamline traffic flow and improve access to surrounding neighborhoods.
Additional construction involves the development of a new on-ramp to northbound I-95 at Tacony Street and a planned extension called the Delaware Avenue Extension. The extension will connect to the new on-ramp, with initial construction phases expected to start during the summer. These projects are part of broader efforts to enhance connections between key highways and local streets.
Project Timeline and Traffic Management
The Section BS2, which encompasses the current stage of construction, is part of the second of five contracts within the overall I-95 reconstruction initiative. This section is projected for completion in 2028. Significant progress has been made since the inception of the project, with earlier phases such as Section BS1, covering the rebuilding and widening of I-95 from Levick to Carver streets, being completed in early 2023.
Transportation officials intend to maintain highway capacity during construction, ensuring that three travel lanes in each direction on I-95 remain open during peak hours. However, periodic off-peak lane closures may occur to facilitate construction activities and minimize congestion.
Contractors and Project Oversight
The general contractor for Section BS2 is James J. Anderson Construction, based in Philadelphia. The company oversees the coordination of various construction activities, including roadway, utility, and structural work, to meet project timelines and quality standards. The ongoing work reflects a collaborative effort to upgrade the aging transportation infrastructure and support future growth in the region.
As work continues, commuters and residents are advised to stay aware of lane closures and detours, especially as new bridge and roadway components are completed. The overall project aims to improve traffic safety, reduce congestion, and enhance the transportation network in Northeast Philadelphia over the coming years.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lane Closures for Interstate 16 Improvement Project
Additional Resources
- 95revive: BSR Construction Update Spring 2025
- Wikipedia: Interstate 95
- MyChesco: Major I-95 Reconstruction Project Set to Begin
- Google Search: I-95 reconstruction in northeast Philadelphia
- NBC Philadelphia: I-95 Collapse Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bridge Construction
- Roads & Bridges: PennDOT Begins Bridge Repairs on I-95
- Google News: I-95 construction Philadelphia
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