Update: 26.06.2023
Contrary to expectations, the damages incurred from a tanker truck explosion on Philadelphia's Interstate 95 (I-95) were repaired ahead of schedule.
When the explosion occurred on 11 June, the media speculated that the damages could take months to repair, causing significant traffic delays on one of the United State's busiest highways. However, the city managed to restore and open the damaged portion in less than two weeks.
According to a report by CNN, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said, “We demolished a roadway, we rebuilt I-95 in just 12 days." Six lanes of I-95 have reopened to motorists, added the report.
The collapse caused major disruptions to the movement of passenger and cargo transportation vehicles, including trucks moving to and from New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia ports.
Original article: 13.06.2023
On Sunday morning, a tanker truck crashed in Philadelphia, leading to the collapse of an overpass on one of the United State’s busiest highways. The crash of the truck, which was carrying 8,500 gallons of gasoline, caused an explosion on Interstate 95 (I-95), one of the key traffic routes passing New York.
According to a report by CBS News, nearly 160,000 vehicles pass the I-95 on a daily basis and fixing the damage could take several months. The rebuilding of the overpass will also require the demolition of the southbound lanes, said CBS, which could add to the traffic and congestion in the area.
With the I-95 being a key highway for cargo movement to and from New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia ports, a slowdown is expected as drivers attempt to take alternative routes. The Philadelphia Enquirer had already reported this week that commuters started planning for new routines.
In the meantime, government officials have promised to provide full support to repair the damage. Although the bridge is only ten years old, local media reported that it was not designed to withstand fire.
