News Summary
Major construction projects in Philadelphia are focusing on the expansion of Interstate 95 and the new Penn’s Landing Park. Work is progressing on the I-95 cover extension, aiming for better access to the waterfront. The project, costing $328.9 million, also includes the South Street Pedestrian Bridge and various utility upgrades by multiple providers. These developments intend to improve travel and enhance community spaces, while ensuring historical memorials are preserved within the new structures.
Philadelphia – Major construction projects are currently underway in Philadelphia, focusing on the expansion of Interstate 95 (I-95) and the development of the new Penn’s Landing Park. Work is actively progressing on the eastern abutment and support pier for the I-95 cover extension over Columbus Boulevard. This construction aims to create a more accessible connection between the city and its waterfront.
The current phase of the project involves the completion of the pier, which will subsequently facilitate the setting of steel deck beams over both northbound and southbound lanes of I-95. This process is structured into three phases, with the installation of the beams expected to be finished by mid-2026. Following this, deck installation for Christopher Columbus Boulevard is projected to occur between November 2026 and February 2027.
During construction, a non-working holiday period is scheduled from mid-December through early January. Furthermore, the ramp from Market Street to southbound I-95 is anticipated to be completed in early December, with plans to re-open the closed ramp by the end of the year.
Upcoming Developments
Looking ahead, the assembly of the new South Street Pedestrian Bridge extension is expected to commence in early 2026. This pedestrian bridge is set to improve access from Center City to Penn’s Landing by crossing over Columbus Boulevard. Although minor interruptions to the existing pedestrian bridge may occur, it will remain operational throughout the construction.
For those traveling between Penn’s Landing and Front Street, access will still be possible via Dock and Market streets during the construction period. The utility work conducted by PECO and Comcast at the surface level was completed by spring 2025, and further sewer facility installations at Penn’s Landing and Columbus Boulevard are anticipated to continue until fall 2025. Additional utility work by PECO, Comcast, and Verizon is also scheduled to take place at Front Street in fall 2025.
Traffic Advisory
Throughout the construction phase, drivers and pedestrians will experience minor lane shifts on I-95, as well as lane restrictions on Columbus Boulevard and Front Street. It is advisable for motorists to remain informed about the ongoing changes to ensure safe travels.
Project Funding and Overview
This extensive construction initiative is supported by a budget of $328.9 million, funded through a combination of federal, local, and private sources. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) aims to create a larger cover over I-95 and Columbus Boulevard, particularly between Chestnut and Walnut streets.
The overarching goal of the I-95 Central Access Philadelphia (CAP) Project is to enhance connections between Center City and the waterfront for various modes of transportation, including pedestrians and bicycles. In addition to the infrastructure development, Penn’s Landing will unveil a new 11.5-acre civic space, featuring gardens, play areas, flexible open areas, and a mass-timber pavilion to serve as a community focal point.
Historical Context
As part of this initiative, Irish and Scottish memorials, which were temporarily relocated to Spruce Street, will be restored to a permanent area on the new I-95 cover. This aspect of the project underscores the commitment to preserving cultural heritage while advancing urban development.
For more information regarding ongoing projects, updates, and travel alerts, residents and commuters can visit the dedicated websites for I-95 Revive and Park at Penn’s Landing.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vestavia Hills City Council Approves Major Construction Project
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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