Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced plans to undertake a $35.8 million project to replace both northbound and southbound bridges along Route 420 (Wanamaker Avenue) over Darby Creek in Tinicum Township, Delaware County, and Prospect Park Borough. The construction will involve superstructure and substructure replacement using in-stream work such as causeways and cofferdams, rock protection, streambed stabilization and fender system replacement. This initiative will enhance site improvements for the betterment of the local community.
Additionally, the bridges will receive upgraded lighting and a new pedestrian trail connection beneath the southern abutments that links to the John Heinz Wildlife Refuge. West of Route 420, an 8-10 foot wide shared-use path will be constructed north of Darby Creek. Additionally, both sides of Route 420 south of Darby Creek will receive a shared-use path that connect to the existing parking lots at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. These upgrades are sure to improve accessibility, safety and visibility along this scenic route.
While the replacement project for the bridge is underway, northbound Route 420 (Wanamaker Avenue) motorists can expect two lanes of traffic to be open at all times, while southbound motorists will have one lane. On May 19th, however, reconstruction work will begin on the southbound Route 420 structure, necessitating a 24/7 closure of the left lane between 4th Avenue and Interstate 95. Motorists can expect this single lane closure to remain in effect until the completion of the new bridge.
As a result of the long-term closure, southbound Route 420 (Wanamaker Avenue) will be closed to oversized vehicles over 10 feet wide. Instead, these drivers are encouraged to take alternate routes such as U.S. 13 (Chester Pike), Stewart Avenue and Route 291 (Industrial Highway) to access Route 420 (Wanamaker Avenue) at I-95. Motorists cannot access southbound Route 420 (Wanamaker Avenue) from Lazaretto Road and will need to follow posted detour routes.
In addition, to access northbound and southbound Route 420 (Wanamaker Avenue) from Lafayette Avenue at 2nd Avenue, drivers will need to follow posted detour routes unless they are driving emergency vehicles. Significant delays and backups are anticipated as a result of the construction, so motorists should plan accordingly. However, all work is dependent on the weather.
The southbound Route 420 bridge on Wanamaker Avenue spans 237 feet across three prestressed concrete composite adjacent box beam spans. Though posted for 30 and 40-ton combinations, its elements have deteriorated and lost structure, rendering it in poor condition.
Meanwhile, the 232-foot-long northbound Route 420 bridge shares similarities with its southbound twin in construction and spans. Its condition is rated fair, but still weary from wear and tear. Extensive repairs are pressing.
The bridge replacement project, fully financed with federal funds, has enlisted the services of Richard E. Pierson Construction Co. Inc. from Pilesgrove, NJ as the general contractor. The entire project is anticipated to conclude in the summer of 2027.
Drivers can check current road conditions by visiting the MyChesCo Traffic Center. Stay updated on the latest news and information from MyChesCo with our free newsletter. Follow MyChesCo on Twitter at twitter.com/MyChesCo and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/MyChesCo.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News.