Beginning July 19, the DOT will be closing Interstate 76 eastbound (Exit 1A) ramp connection to Interstate 295 southbound in conjunction with the Direct Connection project. Be aware that the closure will start around 11 p.m. and PKF Mark III, the contractor, is scheduled to close the left-lane ramp connection to set up a new construction zone.
The full ramp closure is necessary for the contractor to conduct roadway excavation work along the inside shoulder of the ramp. The DOT expects the ramp to be reopened by 5 a.m. on Monday, July 22. If the work is completed prior to that, the ramp will be reopened at the time of completion.
During the weekend closure motorists destined for Interstate 295 southbound will be directed to utilize one of two detour options:
Motorists can use I-76 eastbound Exit 1B for I-295 northbound to Exit 28 for Route 168 northbound to the ramp for I-295 southbound.
As a secondary detour, motorists can use I-76 eastbound to Route 42 southbound to Exit 14 to use Creek Road to get onto Route 42 northbound to I-295 northbound to Exit 28 for Route 168 northbound to the ramp for I-295 southbound.
Residents should be aware that in addition to this weekend’s closure, this construction will impact their commute and the surrounding communities for several years. When this project is completed, it will alleviate much of the traffic congestion currently experienced on a daily basis. The project will upgrade the configuration of the highway interchange and help to enhance safety and reduce traffic congestion at the interchange of I-296, I-76 and Route 42 while providing a direct connection for I-295 traffic that will bypass the Route 42 and I-76 traffic.
Construction began on the first phase of the project in March of this year along I-295 south of Essex Avenue, along I-76 in the Market Street area and along two Route 42 ramps. Work under this first phase is expected to be completed in the summer of 2015. The overall project is part of the $900 million federally funded Direct Connection project and will provide a seamless route for I-295 motorists traveling through the interchange – through which approximately 250,000 vehicles travel daily to and from Camden, Philadelphia and other destinations.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check DOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information.