News Summary
Major construction projects are underway in Philadelphia, focusing on the I-95 cover extension and the development of a new park at Penn’s Landing. This initiative aims to enhance transportation with a new pedestrian bridge and improved public spaces. Ongoing work includes the extension of infrastructure over Columbus Boulevard and the assembly of a pedestrian bridge for safer access to the waterfront. With a budget of $328.9 million, the project is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Center City and the waterfront.
Philadelphia: Major Construction Continues on I-95 Expansion and New Penn’s Landing Park
Construction activities are actively taking place in Philadelphia as part of significant infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing transportation and public space. Ongoing work includes the extension of the I-95 cover over Columbus Boulevard at Penn’s Landing and the development of a new park and pedestrian bridge to improve access to the waterfront.
I-95 Cover Extension and Support Structures
This fall, construction crews are focused on the eastern abutment and support pier for the I-95 cover extension over Columbus Boulevard. Once completed, this support infrastructure will enable the installation of steel deck beams across both northbound and southbound lanes of I-95 in three phases. The beam installation process is projected to conclude by mid-2026. Subsequently, deck installation for Christopher Columbus Boulevard is scheduled to occur from November 2026 through February 2027.
During this period, there will be a non-working holiday break from mid-December to early January to facilitate temporary stoppages in construction activities. Additionally, minor lane shifts and restrictions are expected on I-95 and nearby ramps during the project lifecycle to ensure safety and progress.
Impacts on Traffic and Ramps
The Market Street ramp to southbound I-95 is expected to be completed by early December. The ramp, currently closed for reconstruction, is scheduled to reopen by the end of this year, helping to restore traffic flow and accessibility in the area. Motorists should anticipate some delays and lane restrictions on adjacent roads such as Columbus Boulevard and Front Street as work progresses.
Construction of Pedestrian Infrastructure
A new South Street Pedestrian Bridge extension is planned to begin assembly in early 2026. This extension will allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross over Columbus Boulevard, providing safer access between Penn’s Landing and Center City. The existing pedestrian bridge remains open with only minor interruptions expected during the construction period. Pedestrians will also have alternative routes via Dock and Market streets between Penn’s Landing and Front Street.
Utilities and Surface-Level Work
Surface-level utility installations by PECO and Comcast were completed in spring 2025. Currently, sewer facility work at Penn’s Landing and Columbus Boulevard is ongoing through fall 2025. Infrastructure upgrades will continue fall 2025 with additional surface utilities installed by PECO, Comcast, and Verizon along Front Street, supporting the wider development plans.
Project Scope and Budget
The entire development project is allocated a budget of $328.9 million, sourced from federal, local, and private funding. Central to these improvements is the I-95 Central Access Philadelphia (CAP) Project, which aims to better connect Center City to the waterfront through enhanced multimodal transportation options.
New Public Spaces and Memorials
As part of the transformation, a new Park at Penn’s Landing will span approximately 11.5 acres. The park will feature gardens, play areas, flexible open spaces, and a mass-timber pavilion, creating a versatile civic environment for residents and visitors alike. In addition, Irish and Scottish memorials that have been temporarily relocated to Spruce Street will be permanently returned to the new I-95 cover area.
Additional Information and Updates
For ongoing updates, project details, and travel advisories, residents and commuters are encouraged to consult official sources. Relevant information can be found on dedicated project websites, which provide real-time updates for travelers navigating these construction zones during the ongoing development process.
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Additional Resources
- 95Revive: CAP Construction Update Summer 2025
- Wikipedia: Interstate 95
- NBC Philadelphia: Evening Construction on I-95
- Google Search: I-95 expansion Philadelphia
- Metro Philadelphia: I-95 South Closures Center City
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Penn’s Landing
- 92.5 XTU: Overnight I-95 Construction Work
- Google News: Penn’s Landing Park construction
- Northeast Times: PennDOT I-95 Reconstruction
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philadelphia
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