106264 | I-95 Central Access Philadelphia (CAP) / Waterfront Access (Philadelphia City)

This project creates an innovative complex of a cap structure, viaduct, road, and trail structures that re-establish a strong connection between central Philadelphia and its waterfront, while making multi-modal enhancements that improve the transportation experience for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. The new cap/bridge structure will span both I-95 and Christopher Columbus Boulevard between Chestnut and Walnut Streets, providing more direct access to the waterfront.
The scope of this project includes 5 major components: 1) replacing and expanding the existing cap/bridge structure near Penn’s Landing and constructing a new, extended cap/bridge structure which will span both I-95 and Christopher Columbus Boulevard between Chestnut and Walnut Streets for pedestrian and vehicular use (note the current cap extends from Chestnut Street to Sansom Walk, and only Chestnut Street and Walnut Street span Columbus Boulevard); 2) extending the South Street pedestrian bridge from the east edge of I-95 northbound over Columbus Boulevard to Penn’s Landing; 3) reconstructing the viaduct connection between Chestnut and Market Streets at Penn’s Landing; 4) constructing a section of the Delaware River Trail along Christopher Columbus Boulevard; and 5) inspection and repairs of underwater concrete piles located in the Penn’s Landing area.
Note that $60 million local funds will be provided by the City of Philadelphia via bonding for structure construction, and a series of private contributions will be made available for the project: $25 million for amenities; and $20 million for reconstructing the viaduct connection between Chestnut and Market Streets at Penn’s Landing.
A final alternative for bridge rehabilitation or replacement is determined upon federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or state Categorical Exclusion clearance.