The Frankford Avenue bridge over Frankford Creek is officially off-limits, and it is going to stay that way for a while. PennDOT has started a yearlong shutdown of the 123-year-old single-span bridge, closing Frankford Avenue between Torresdale Avenue and Hunting Park Avenue and forcing thousands of drivers onto detours across Northeast Philadelphia.
When and where the closure will run
According to PennDOT, crews began work Monday and the closure is not a short one. Frankford Avenue will remain shut down 24/7 between Torresdale Avenue and Hunting Park Avenue through March 22, 2027.
During that stretch, southbound drivers will be pushed onto a detour using Torresdale Avenue/Erie Avenue, Castor Avenue and Sedgley Avenue. Northbound traffic will be routed along Pike Street and Kensington Avenue. PennDOT says local access will be maintained throughout the project, so neighbors can still reach homes and businesses, even if the through-traffic cannot.
Scope of the work
The job carries a $10 million price tag and focuses on rebuilding the bridge superstructure while keeping the existing shoulder and sidewalk widths, according to 6abc. Crews will also install a barrier along East Hunting Park Avenue between Frankford and Torresdale, the outlet reports.
The bridge, which has stood for more than a century, was recently listed in poor condition, and the detours are expected to drag on commutes across the area, 6abc notes.
Design details and funding
PennDOT says the 123-year-old single-span structure typically carries about 12,000 vehicles a day. The planned superstructure will keep the existing wrought-iron railing wherever it can, and any sections that have to be replaced will be fabricated to match.
The department has tapped C. Abbonizio Contractors, Inc. as the general contractor. All of the work is being paid for with federal dollars, with the project financed at 100 percent federal funds. One piece of the old layout that will not survive: the inactive SEPTA trolley rails that cross the current bridge will be left out of the new structure.
Traffic impacts and what drivers should do
Drivers in Northeast Philly should brace for heavier traffic on the surrounding arteries and budget extra time into their daily routines. PennDOT is urging motorists to check conditions and live traffic cameras at 511PA before heading out.
City and state officials are expected to work together on public outreach efforts as the long-term bridge rehabilitation moves ahead.
