Breaking News: I-95 Fire and Partial Highway Collapse Update
In a startling incident this morning on June 11, 2023, a vehicle fire erupted under the prominent I-95 highway near the Cottman Avenue exit in Northeast Philadelphia, resulting in a partial collapse of the roadway. According to initial reports, a tanker truck was involved in the fiery incident, prompting Pennsylvania State Police to swiftly close I-95 in both directions in the affected vicinity.
The Philadelphia Fire Department worked diligently to bring the fire under control earlier today. In response to this unforeseen event, multiple city and state agencies have mobilized to address the concerns of local residents and travelers who have been impacted by the closure of this crucial transportation artery. As new information emerges, we will provide you with the latest details.
To mitigate the disruption caused by the closure, officials have offered guidance to residents and visitors affected by this incident. As an alternative means of travel, individuals are strongly encouraged to utilize SEPTA, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.
As of now, all lanes of I-95 remain closed in both directions between the Woodhaven and Aramingo exits. Additionally, certain streets in the surrounding area have been temporarily closed to accommodate the ongoing emergency response efforts. It is important to note that these closures are subject to change as the response operations progress. To stay updated on the latest developments, we advise travelers to monitor local news outlets and follow PennDOT's Twitter account or visit their website at pa.gov/i95updates.
In light of the current closure of I-95, the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) has arranged complimentary parking options at specific SEPTA train station lots until further notice. The designated locations are as follows:
1. Fern Rock Rail Station – 10th & Nedro Streets
2. Fox Chase Rail Station – 500 Rhawn Street
3. Torresdale Rail Station – 4900 Grant Avenue
Given the circumstances, commuters should anticipate delays and make alternate travel arrangements, especially when planning their weekday commutes.
Residents are advised to continue setting out their trash and recycling collections as scheduled on their regular trash day and at their usual pickup site. However, individuals residing in the northeastern area of the city should expect some delays in collections. The Streets Department is currently evaluating the areas that will be affected since sanitation trucks will need to be redirected along alternative travel routes.
For those seeking detour routes during this period, PennDOT has provided the following recommendations:
I-95 Southbound: Take Route 63 West (Woodhaven Road), then U.S. 1 South, followed by 76 East and finally 676 East.
I-95 Northbound: Travel on I-676 West, then I-76 West, proceed to U.S. 1 North, and finally Route 63 East (Woodhaven Road).
To access the most up-to-date information on detours and closures, we encourage you to visit pa.gov/i95updates.
Philadelphia Police have implemented a series of closures and detours along I-95 in the vicinity of the Cottman Avenue exit. Police presence will be noticeable along the designated detour route. Local businesses and deliveries will have access during this period, but travelers should anticipate delays along the detour and bear in mind that these arrangements are subject to change.
Here is an overview of the detours and closures 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: All traffic will flow northbound only from Bridge Street to New State Road. Additionally, traffic from the Tacony Palmyra Bridge heading towards Tacony Street will be closed, with all vehicles diverted westbound onto Levick Street.
To facilitate the smooth flow of traffic, the Cottman Avenue exit and State Road will be subject to closures. State Road, stretching from Cottman Avenue to Longshore Avenue, will be limited to southbound travel only.
For those traveling southbound on I-95, the suggested detour is as follows:
1. Exit I-95 southbound at Cottman Avenue.
2. At the end of the ramp, make a right turn onto Bleigh Street.
3. Follow Bleigh Street until reaching State Road, then make a left turn onto State Road.
4. Continue south on State Road until Longshore Avenue.
5. Re-enter I-95 southbound at the intersection of State Road and Longshore Avenue.
For northbound travelers on I-95, the recommended detour is as follows:
1. Exit I-95 at Aramingo Avenue.
2. At the end of the ramp, make a left turn onto Aramingo Avenue.
3. Follow Aramingo Avenue until reaching Tacony Street, then make a right turn.
4. Proceed northbound on Tacony Street, following the route around the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge loop towards New State Road.
5. Continue north on New State Road.
6. Travel on Milnor Street and re-enter I-95 northbound.
It is essential for residents and commuters to stay informed about the ongoing situation. Here are some reliable sources to gather more information:
1. Follow the Office of Emergency Management and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation on Twitter for real-time updates.
2. Sign up for emergency alerts by texting ReadyPhila to 888-777.
3. Visit pa.gov/i95updates to access the latest information regarding detours and closures.
Please note that the situation is evolving, and it is crucial to stay updated through official channels to ensure your safety and plan your travel accordingly.