Construction on the Washington Avenue connector project has begun.
The city Department of Streets and the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation announced the beginning of the project, which is slated to improve access between South Philadelphia and the scenic Delaware River Trail.
“The Department of Streets is thrilled to be working with DRWC to deliver this project for the communities and businesses along Washington Avenue and the Delaware River,” said Richard Montanez, First Deputy Commissioner, Department of Streets. “We ask the community for their patience through this construction and remind everyone to use caution while driving through the work zone to ensure the safety of our workers.”
The project is expected to take about a year and will include improvements between 4th Street and Columbus Boulevard. It will include resurfacing of the avenue, new curbs, curb bump-outs at intersections and ADA ramps. For pedestrian safety, plans are designed to have shorter crosswalk distances and four new center median islands. Bi-directional multi-use paths will be installed for people walking and biking along the southern side of the roadway.
Plans also include traffic signal improvements, pedestrian scale street lighting and new street trees and landscaping. The removal of slip lane from 4th Street to 3rd Street (at Jefferson Square Park) and under I-95 is also planned and improvements to Washington Avenue and Columbus Boulevard intersection, including a connection between the new multi-use path and the Delaware River Trail, is also in the works.
“The Washington Avenue Connector Project is about building stronger connections and improved access for our communities,” said Joseph Forkin, president and CEO of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. “We’re proud to partner with the City of Philadelphia Department of Streets on this project, which, upon its expected completion in spring 2026, will provide an essential link between South Philadelphia and Queen Village neighborhoods and the Delaware River Trail. Since the trail opened in spring 2022, Columbus Boulevard has seen significant improvements, creating safer, more welcoming spaces for walkers, joggers and cyclists – and we’re excited to extend this enhanced experience to Washington Avenue.”
According to studies, Washington Avenue is one of the most heavily traveled roadways in the city.
“Access to safe, enjoyable movement through our city democratizes Philadelphia’s incredible cultural riches and vibrant public spaces. Washington Avenue is a vital transportation artery not just for South Philadelphia but for our entire city, and the Connector Project revisions this road as a flourishing community corridor for all who use it,” said state Sen. Nikil Saval. “Since its conception, the Connector Project has received overwhelming support from the surrounding neighborhoods. I’m immensely proud to have supported our commonwealth’s investment in this important public project, and I look forward to joining neighbors in making this part of our regular commutes.”
Construction will be phased in order to maintain the flow of traffic along the corridor throughout the length of construction. Temporary lane closures will be required as well as parking restrictions while completing work, according to the city.
Temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted in advance of each scheduled activity. Cars must be removed from the work sites during the hours posted on the “No Parking” signs to avoid being towed. In the event a vehicle is towed, residents should call the 3rd Police District at 215-686-3030 to determine its location.
