Philadelphia Launches I-95/BS2 Construction Project

News Summary

Philadelphia is embarking on a major construction project valued at $268 million to enhance the I-95 corridor, focusing on the Bridge Street Interchange. The initiative aims to reconstruct and widen sections of I-95, improve traffic flow, and bolster infrastructure resilience. Key components include a new southbound viaduct, retaining walls for added support, and a new stormwater drainage system. With construction management measures in place to minimize disruptions, the project is expected to continue through 2028, significantly improving connectivity and safety in Northeast Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Begins Major Construction on I-95/BS2 Project to Enhance Bridge Street Interchange

Philadelphia is experiencing significant construction activity as part of an extensive upgrade to the Interstate 95 corridor. The project, valued at $268 million, aims to reconstruct and widen sections of I-95 between Margaret Street and Carver Street, with a particular focus on the Bridge Street Interchange in Northeast Philadelphia. This initiative is part of PennDOT’s broader plan to improve traffic flow, safety, and infrastructure resilience across the region.

Progress on New Southbound Viaduct

Recent construction efforts have centered on the deck construction of the new southbound viaduct at the I-95 Bridge Street Interchange. Crews are actively placing reinforcing steel, known as rebar, and preparing the surface for paving operations at the northern end of the new structure. The viaduct is designed to span over Bridge Street, Tacony, and other surface streets before linking to newly paved at-grade roadways.

Structural Components and Support Infrastructure

Two of the four retaining walls necessary to support the embankments have been completed, with the remaining walls currently under construction along the southbound side of the interchange. These retaining walls are vital as they uphold embankments that will eventually carry a continuous fourth lane of traffic, along with a new off-ramp to James Street. Construction of this off-ramp marks a key improvement, as it will replace the existing southbound ramp to James Street, which has been closed.

Stormwater and Utility Work

Parallel to bridge construction, contractors are installing a new stormwater drainage system designed to manage runoff effectively from the expanded roadway. Utility work is also progressing, including the installation of a new water main under Tacony Street. Sewer line construction and other utility upgrades are ongoing, with subcontractors such as PECO involved in relocating underground utility lines to support the new infrastructure.

Additional Roadway and Interchange Enhancements

Beyond the viaduct, several other elements are underway to improve connectivity and traffic movement. These include the construction of a new on-ramp to northbound I-95 at Tacony Street and the Delaware Avenue Extension. The extension will connect to a new ramp designed to facilitate easier access and better traffic flow through this Northeast Philadelphia corridor. The initial phase of the Delaware Avenue Extension construction is scheduled to commence this summer.

Traffic Management During Construction

During the ongoing project, traffic management measures are in place to minimize disruptions. Currently, vehicles exiting southbound I-95 at Bridge Street are being detoured to Aramingo Avenue. Authorities have indicated that three travel lanes in each direction on I-95 will remain open during peak hours, although periodic off-peak lane closures may occur to facilitate construction activities.

Project Timeline and Contractor Information

The Section BS2 of the project, which encompasses the construction of the new viaduct and related infrastructure, is part of the second of five total contracts dedicated to the full I-95 reconstruction effort. This section is currently underway with an expected completion date in 2028. Philadelphia-based James J. Anderson Construction serves as the general contractor for this phase.

Progress on Earlier Sections

Support for the ongoing work was provided earlier this year through the successful completion of Section BS1. This initial phase involved rebuilding and widening I-95 from Levick to Carver Streets, laying the groundwork for subsequent improvements along the corridor.

Overall Project Scope and Future Outlook

The I-95/BS2 project represents a critical infrastructure upgrade aimed at improving mobility, reducing congestion, and enhancing safety for drivers in Northeast Philadelphia. The comprehensive work includes roadway widening, bridge replacements, utility upgrades, and new interchanges. Construction is projected to continue through at least 2028, with ongoing updates expected to inform commuters about traffic impacts and future milestones as the project advances.

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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