Philadelphia officials said a truck fire under I-95 near the Cottman Avenue exit in Northeast Philadelphia caused a portion of the highway to collapse. Many roads and bridges near the collapse have also been closed as local, state and federal officials address the situation.
The road closures will likely morph into a traffic nightmare for commuters and those seeking alternative travel routes. There is going to be no easy workaround so drivers should expect serious delays due to travel restrictions and traffic congestion. PennDOT is also urging travelers to consider using public transit but if you must drive there are options to consider.
What we know:
- About seven miles of I-95, from Allegheny and Castor Avenues (Exit 25) to Academy Road and Linden Avenue (Exit 32) are closed in both directions
- Detour routes for I-95 Northbound are I-676 West, I-76 West, U.S. 1 North to Route 63 East (Woodhaven Road)
- Detour routes for I-95 Southbound are Route 63 West (Woodhaven Road), U.S. 1 South, 76 East, 676 East
- Commuters who opt for Route 130 or Interstate 295 in New Jersey will compete with shore traffic and the Route 1 highway is currently undergoing multiple construction projects.
The latest updates
To stay updated about what’s going on follow the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation on Twitter.
Contact reporter Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com. Join her on the Facebook group Delaware Voices Uplifted. Support her work and become a subscriber.