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Released: 1/9/2017 

Ben Franklin Bridge South Walkway Has Reopened

1/9/17
Ben Franklin Bridge Walkway Extended Closure Notice
Replacement of security fencing required before either side reopens

Over the weekend, crews working to reopen the north walkway on the Ben Franklin Bridge discovered a large portion of the fence collapsed onto the walkway after Saturday’s storm. The fence protects pedestrians from vehicular traffic on the New Jersey approach. The collapse does not pose a concern to vehicular traffic, but it does require extensive repair before the walkway can be reopened to pedestrian traffic. Repairs are underway.

The south walkway has been closed since December 7 in support of the bridge’s cable inspection project. A contractor has equipment on the south walkway and has removed portions of the security fencing to perform the inspection work. Therefore, the Delaware River Port Authority is unable to safely open the south walkway while repairs are made on the north walkway. The contractor is scheduled to complete their inspection this week, weather permitting.

DRPA is working to reopen either walkway as soon as possible. Updates will be posted when available.

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1/10/17
Walkway Update
At this time, both walkways remain closed. The contractor on the south walkway has completed their work but the walkway remains closed due to icy pavement conditions. Weather permitting, we expect the south walkway to reopen tomorrow. The north walkway remains closed due to the collapsed fencing.

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1/11/17
South Walkway Reopens
The south walkway reopened 6:50 a.m. this morning. Last night’s rain helped clear the remaining snow and ice from the walkway. Starting today, the souith walkway will resume normal daily hours of 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Repairs continue on north walkway's fence.

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