105290 | Ben Franklin Bridge Eastbound Operational Improvements (Philadelphia City)

This project will improve traffic operations on the eastbound approaches to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, and improve the safety and connectivity of the pedestrian and bicycle facilities within the approach areas.
Currently, eastbound traffic enters onto the bridge from three local streets; Sixth Street, Race Street (SR 3032) and Fifth Street, Three or four lanes are provided on the bridge in the eastbound direction, depending on the configuration of the movable barrier. Three travel lanes are available during the morning peak period and four travel lanes during the evening peak period. Existing operations create vehicular conflicts, reduced speeds and congestion created by high volumes.
Pedestrians and bicycles within the vicinity of the eastbound approach are confronted with several, uninterrupted traffic streams and a lack of clearly defined crossings. Pedestrians and bicycles destined for the bridge or the Philadelphia Plaza use inappropriate routes, creating conflicts with vehicular traffic.
Proposed improvements include realigning the Fifth Street approach north of Race Street to intersect with the Race Street approach at a new, signalized intersection. Shifting the Fifth Street intersection to the west can improve the turning radius for larger vehicles, and eliminate the need to dedicate Lane 7 on the Bridge for the exclusive use of the Fifth Street approach. A mountable concrete island is proposed to separate the Fifth Street/Race Street approach from the Sixth Street approach. Proposed improvements also include signage to direct pedestrians and bicycles to appropriate routes, and barriers to reduce potential conflicts with vehicular traffic.
Related to MPMS #72597