City Avenue Bridge Repair to Cut U.S. 1 to One Lane Each Way for 20 Months
News October 01, 2025

City Avenue Bridge Repair to Cut U.S. 1 to One Lane Each Way for 20 Months

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that U.S. 1 (City Avenue) will be reduced to a single lane in each direction for roughly 20 months as ...

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Commuters who regularly travel along City Avenue are bracing for significant delays as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced a major bridge repair project that will reduce U.S. 1 to a single lane in each direction for an estimated 20 months. The lengthy closure is necessary to facilitate critical repairs to the City Avenue bridge, a vital artery connecting Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township.

The extensive project aims to address structural deficiencies that have been identified on the aging bridge. While PennDOT hasn't released specific details on the exact nature of the repairs, the duration suggests a comprehensive overhaul is planned, likely involving concrete replacement, steel reinforcement, and potentially, drainage improvements.

The lane restrictions will undoubtedly impact traffic flow on City Avenue, a major thoroughfare that carries a high volume of vehicles daily. PennDOT is urging motorists to plan ahead and consider alternative routes whenever possible. They are also advising drivers to allow for extra travel time, particularly during peak commuting hours.

The closure is expected to cause ripple effects throughout the surrounding area, potentially leading to increased congestion on nearby roads such as Belmont Avenue, Monument Road, and Schuylkill Expressway (I-76). Local businesses are also preparing for potential disruptions, as the reduced traffic flow could impact customer access and overall sales.

PennDOT has stated that they will be implementing a comprehensive traffic management plan to mitigate the impact of the lane closures. This plan will likely include adjusted signal timings, increased signage to guide drivers, and active monitoring of traffic conditions to respond to any unforeseen incidents.

While the 20-month timeline may seem daunting, PennDOT emphasizes that the repairs are essential to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the City Avenue bridge. Regular inspections have highlighted the urgent need for these improvements, and delaying the project could lead to more significant and costly problems in the future. The department plans to provide regular updates on the project's progress and any changes to the traffic pattern through their website and social media channels. Commuters are encouraged to stay informed to navigate the construction zone as smoothly as possible.
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