Platt Bridge Reconstruction Causes Stop-and-Go Headache For Drivers
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It has been a little over a month since the start of construction on the Platt Bridge in South Philadelphia, and Penndot is now looking at stepped-up speed enforcement and more warning signs to slow drivers down.
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation spokesman Gene Blaum says there have been about a dozen incidents at various locations on the bridge -- mostly fender-bender accidents or stalled vehicles -- which is now limited to one lane in each direction since the February 20th start of construction.
He says the speed limit in the construction zone is down to 35 mph, and there are warning signs on the approach to the bridge and in the work zone. He says that Penndot even has a tow vehicle assigned to the bridge to remove accidents quickly when they occur.
But he says Penndot can't do it all.
"It's driver responsibility, when they're on the bridge, to keep their eyes on the road and keep their eyes on the vehicle in front of them. Should that vehicle make a quick stop, leave enough distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you so you can stop safely," Blaum reminds motorists.
Sam Clover, in our KYW Traffic Center, says it's not a mystery what's happening:
"People go too fast on the bridge. There's only one lane getting by. All you need is a broken-down car or minor accident and the bridge is closed."
Blaum adds that Penndot is looking at stepped up speed enforcement and fines.
Meanwhile, Clover suggests avoiding the Platt Bridge altogether and using I-95 instead. Blaum couldn't agree more.
