July 27, 2023 – Construction activities this summer on PennDOT’s $328.9 million contract to replace and expand the existing covered section (I-95/CAP) of Interstate 95 at Penn’s Landing (see rendering below) remain focused on the relocation of extensive utilities across the wide project area as well as planning for the temporary relocation of two existing monuments on the existing capped area over the interstate between Market and South streets along the Delaware River Waterfront.
Large-scale construction, starting with the demolition of the existing covered area that includes the cap structure over I-95 between Chestnut and Walnut, is expected to begin by the end of the year once the monuments are moved.
Along with the current utility work, crews are building the foundations for a stairway east of Columbus Boulevard for the new extension of the South Street pedestrian bridge. The new structure will be a unique “tied-arch” bridge (see rendering below) that extends from the east end of the existing span over Columbus Boulevard to Penn’s Landing.
In addition to replacing the cap over I-95 between Chestnut and Walnut streets, the I-95 Central Access Philadelphia (CAP) Project will improve pedestrian and multi-modal connections between Center City and the waterfront. The project has two main components: a new Park at Penn’s Landing, and a new signature bridge at South Street, both of which will also extend over Columbus Boulevard to connect cyclists and pedestrians to the newly completed Delaware River Trail.
The new Park will be an 11.5-acre civic space spanning I-95 and Columbus Boulevard between Chestnut and Walnut Streets, extending from Front Street to the Delaware River. It will include amenities including gardens, play areas, flexible open space, and a mass-timber Pavilion.
During construction, I-95 motorists will experience minor lane shifts on the mainline and adjacent ramps. Other travel restrictions also will take place on I-95 and adjacent surface streets — including Columbus Boulevard and Front Street, during various phases of construction.
Pedestrian access between Center City and the waterfront also will be maintained on Dock Street and Market Street during construction.
Additional project details, construction updates, project detours, and other information will be available on this website and ParkatPennsLanding.com.
The project is financed with federal, local, and private funds.
