Collapse of I-95 Underpass in Northeast Philadelphia: Updates and Impact

Introduction

The collapse of the I-95 underpass near the Cottman Avenue exit in Northeast Philadelphia has caused significant disruptions in the area. This article aims to provide timely updates, guidance, and information about the incident and its impact on residents, visitors, transportation, and local services.

Incident Details

On the morning of June 11, 2023, a vehicle fire occurred under the I-95 underpass, involving a tanker truck. The fire led to a partial collapse of the highway, necessitating the closure of I-95 in both directions. The Philadelphia Fire Department responded promptly and managed to bring the fire under control.

Response and Updates

Multiple City and state agencies have been working diligently to respond to the incident and address its impacts. Updates regarding the situation have been provided by the officials involved. To stay informed, you can watch the updates on the response to the incident at the provided link.

Guidance for Residents and Visitors

For residents and visitors in the affected area, alternative means of travel are being encouraged. SEPTA, the local transit authority, has increased capacity and service to accommodate the increased demand. It is advisable to utilize SEPTA as an alternative mode of transportation until I-95 reopens. Please refer to SEPTA's schedules and routes for more information.

Impact on Transportation

The closure of I-95 in both directions between the Woodhaven and Aramingo exits has had a significant impact on transportation. Travelers should anticipate delays and plan alternative routes, particularly during their weekday commutes. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has provided detour routes for those affected, which can be found on their website (pa.gov/i95updates). Stay updated with local news and PennDOT's Twitter account for the latest information on detours and closures.

Impact on Local Services

The incident has also affected local services in the area. Trash and recycling collection services will continue as scheduled, but residents in the northeast area of the city should expect delays. The Streets Department is evaluating the areas that will be impacted, as sanitation trucks will need to be redirected along alternative travel routes. For updates on the impact of the incident on trash collection, follow the Streets Department on Twitter.

Detour Routes

To facilitate the flow of traffic during the closure, PennDOT has established detour routes for motorists. The detour routes are as follows:

I-95 Southbound:

• Route 63 West (Woodhaven Road)
• U.S. 1 South
• 76 East
• 676 East

I-95 Northbound:

• I-676 West
• I-76 West
• U.S. 1 North to Route 63 East (Woodhaven Road)

For the most up-to-date information on detours and closures, visit the designated website (pa.gov/i95updates) provided by PennDOT.

Philadelphia Police Detour and Closure Info

The Philadelphia Police have implemented closures and detours to manage traffic in the area around the Cottman Avenue exit on I-95. The following closures and detours are currently in place:

• Castor Avenue on-ramp for I-95 northbound: Closed
• Aramingo Avenue/I-95 on and off-ramps: On-ramp to I-95 northbound closed
• Betsy Ross off-ramp to I-95 northbound: Closed
• Bridge Street ramp: I-95 on-ramp at Bridge Street closed
• Tacony Street and Tacony-Palmyra Bridge: Tacony Palmyra Bridge traffic onto Tacony Street closed. All traffic continues westbound onto Levick Street.
• Cottman Avenue exit and State Road closures: State Road from Cottman Avenue to Longshore Avenue will be one-way, southbound travel only.
• The detour routes for both northbound and southbound traffic on I-95 have been outlined to help motorists navigate the affected areas.

Conclusion

The collapse of the I-95 underpass near the Cottman Avenue exit in Northeast Philadelphia has resulted in the closure of I-95 in both directions. Multiple agencies are working to address the situation and minimize the impact on residents and travelers. Travelers should expect delays and plan alternative routes, while residents should anticipate delays in trash and recycling collections. Stay informed through local news sources, PennDOT's website, and social media channels for the latest updates.