Philadelphia, October 4, 2025
News Summary
Construction is underway this fall on the I-95 expansion and the new Penn’s Landing Park in Philadelphia. The project aims to improve connectivity between Center City and the waterfront. Key aspects include the construction of support piers and pedestrian access enhancements, with completion expected by mid-2027. A new park will feature gardens and play areas across 11.5 acres, funded through a budget of $328.9 million from various sources. The construction also anticipates some minor disruptions for pedestrians during the process.
Pennsylvania
Construction is actively progressing this fall on the expansion of Interstate 95 and the new Penn’s Landing Park in Philadelphia. The ongoing work includes the construction of the eastern abutment and support pier for the I-95 cover extension over Columbus Boulevard, crucial for improving connectivity between Center City and the waterfront.
Once completed, the pier will support the installation of steel deck beams over both northbound and southbound I-95, a task scheduled to unfold in three phases concluding in mid-2026. Following the beam installation, the deck for Christopher Columbus Boulevard is set to be installed from November 2026 to February 2027. There will also be a non-working holiday period from mid-December to early January during the construction, providing brief relief from activity in the area.
In the near term, construction on the Market Street ramp leading to southbound I-95 is projected to finish in early December, with the ramp reopening to traffic by the end of the year. An essential aspect of the improvements includes the assembly of a new South Street Pedestrian Bridge extension, which is expected to commence in early 2026. This bridge will enhance pedestrian access to Penn’s Landing from Center City by crossing over Columbus Boulevard.
Presently, the existing pedestrian bridge remains active, although minor disruptions are anticipated. For those traveling by foot or bike, the routes between Penn’s Landing and Front Street are accessible via Dock and Market Streets during the construction period.
Recent surface-level utility work, completed by PECO and Comcast, has paved the way for further sewer facility installations at Penn’s Landing and Columbus Boulevard, which will continue until fall 2025. Additionally, further utility installations by PECO, Comcast, and Verizon at Front Street will take place in the fall of 2025. Drivers may experience minor lane shifts on I-95 and adjoining ramps, as well as lane restrictions on both Columbus Boulevard and Front Street throughout the construction timeline.
The overall budget for the Penn’s Landing project stands at $328.9 million and is supported through a combination of federal, local, and private funding sources. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is focused on constructing a larger cover over I-95 and Columbus Boulevard, spanning between Chestnut and Walnut Streets.
The I-95 Central Access Philadelphia (CAP) Project aims to significantly enhance transportation connections for pedestrians, cyclists, and multi-modal transit users, ensuring easier access to the increasingly popular waterfront area. The new Park at Penn’s Landing will feature an expansive 11.5-acre civic space characterized by gardens, play areas, flexible open spaces, and a mass-timber pavilion. Furthermore, the Irish and Scottish memorials that were temporarily relocated to Spruce Street are slated to return to a permanent area within the new I-95 cover.
For real-time updates on the project, travel alerts, and additional information, residents and visitors can visit the websites dedicated to the I-95 improvements and Penn’s Landing.
FAQ Section
What is the primary goal of the I-95 expansion project?
The project aims to improve connectivity between Center City Philadelphia and the waterfront, making it more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.
When is the expected completion date for the deck installation over Columbus Boulevard?
The installation of the deck for Christopher Columbus Boulevard is scheduled to take place between November 2026 and February 2027.
Will there be any interruptions in pedestrian access during construction?
While the existing pedestrian bridge will remain operational, minor interruptions may occur, and alternative routes are provided for pedestrians and cyclists during construction.
How is the project being funded?
The overall budget of $328.9 million is funded through a combination of federal, local, and private sources.
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | I-95 Expansion and Penn’s Landing Park |
| Budget | $328.9 million |
| Construction Timeline | Ongoing until mid-2027 |
| New Park Size | 11.5 acres |
| Major Features | Gardens, play areas, flexible spaces, mass-timber pavilion |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Construction Worker Fatally Injured in Bal Harbour Incident
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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