PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced that a critical section of westbound I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway) in the Grays Ferry area of Philadelphia will be closed for bridge deck repairs beginning tonight, Friday, July 25.
From 9:00 PM this evening through 5:00 AM Monday, July 28, westbound I-76 will be closed between the 34th Street off-ramp and the University Avenue on-ramp. The 34th Street ramp to westbound I-76 will also be closed and detoured. The closure may end earlier if repairs are completed ahead of schedule.
Detours will direct regional traffic via I-95 North and I-676 West (Vine Street Expressway). Local drivers exiting I-76 at 34th Street will follow a marked route using Grays Ferry Avenue, Washington Avenue, 22nd Street, Walnut Street, and Schuylkill Avenue to re-access the expressway.
Several ramps will remain open, including those at University Avenue and South Street to I-76 West, as well as the I-76 West ramp to South Street.
The work involves structural repairs to two bridges: one spanning Grays Ferry Avenue, Wharton Street, and Reed Street, and another crossing the Schuylkill River and CSX rail tracks. Crews will remove deteriorated concrete and perform epoxy-based patching before applying a high-bond tack coat and resurfacing with dense bituminous material to enhance durability and water resistance.
The closure has been coordinated with the City of Philadelphia, SEPTA, the Sports Complex, and other agencies to minimize regional disruptions. Electronic message boards will provide real-time updates and alternate route guidance.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area, as significant congestion is expected along I-76 and surrounding surface streets throughout the weekend.
Avoid weekend traffic chaos—check the MyChesCo Traffic Center now for real-time updates on I-76 closures, detours, and road conditions!
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