PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — After more than two years of construction, the Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Bridge is scheduled to reopen later this month following a $20 million rehabilitation project.<\/p>\n
The 700-foot-long bridge, originally opened in 1966, underwent extensive upgrades, including the replacement and widening of the concrete deck, structural steel work, substructure repairs, and fresh painting. The improvements aim to ensure safe access for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.<\/p>\n
Once reopened, the bridge will feature three vehicle lanes and a 10.5-foot shared-use path that connects to the popular MLK Drive Trail. Mayor Cherelle Parker has announced a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Friday, September 19.<\/p>\n
Residents expressed relief and excitement about the reopening.<\/p>\n
“The fact that they are going to reopen it is amazing,” said Donnie Flood of Brewerytown. “I remember when I was walking, I saw that they started doing construction, and I was bummed out, but now, talking to you, they are reopening. And it’s pretty cool.”<\/p>\n
Karl Brown of Mantua added, “Now that it is opening up, it should help traffic flow. People have another option coming into town.”<\/p>\n
Sharon Hoffberg of Logan Square said, “It’s created a lot of traffic issues within the city, and it’ll free things up, also with SEPTA going full force again. It’ll definitely free up some traffic. So, that’s awesome news.”<\/p>\n
The bridge will reopen to pedestrians over the weekend of September 19 and to vehicles on Monday, September 22.<\/p>\n
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