Traffic & Transit
Lane Of I-295 Reopens A Month After Wall Collapse: Officials
The investigation into the collapse of a retaining wall built as part of the $800 million Direct Connection Project continues.
BELLMAWR, NJ — The right lane of I-295 near Essex Avenue in Bellmawr reopened on Wednesday, nearly a month after it was closed due to the partial collapse of a retaining wall, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) announced.
Evacuation work and investigation into the collapse of the wall that was built as part of the $800 million Direct Connection Project continues, according to officials.
“NJDOT is in the process of investigating the cause of the collapse with our contractors, designers, consultants and in-house staff,” officials said in a statement. “Excavation activities are still in progress and there may be a need for future lane closures as the work advances. This is a slow and methodical undertaking to safely conduct the necessary forensic engineering evaluation. Once the cause has been determined, a repair will be designed.”
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“Even though the lane is now open, motorists should continue to expect ongoing congestion and delays associated with this project. If possible, you should plan an alternate route during peak travel times,” Commissioner Al Dyer, liaison to the Camden County Department of Public Works, said. “When the overall project is completed, it will alleviate much of the traffic congestion currently experienced on a daily basis. It will be a monumental change for this highway interchange creating a substantial upgrade to the current configuration.”
NJDOT officials announced on April 7 that they have hired a forensic engineer to independently determine the cause of the collapse.
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The goal of the Direct Connection Project is to provide a seamless route for drivers traveling on I-295 through the interchange of I-295, I-76, and Route 42.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Drivers should check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information. Read more here: Wall Built As Part of $800M Project Collapses On I-295: Officials
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