City of Philadelphia Department of Streets and Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Announce Construction Beginning on Washington Avenue Connector Project
Project to reimagine roadway and better connect community to Delaware River Trail; construction is slated to begin this week with temporary lane closures and parking restrictions in place
PHILADELPHIA – The City of Philadelphia Department of Streets and Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (“DRWC”) announced that construction of the Washington Avenue connector project is slated to begin this week. This project not only reimagines the roadway but also improves 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 Washington Avenue Connector Project is about building stronger connections and improved access for our communities,” said Joseph A. Forkin, President & 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.”
“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 Pennsylvania State Senator Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia). “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.”
Project Overview
The Washington Avenue Connector reimagines the roadway for everyone, whether they choose to walk, bike, ride transit, or drive. From 4th Street to Columbus Boulevard, Washington Avenue’s width and complex design, including a parallel side street, is confusing for drivers and uncomfortable for people walking or biking. This corridor is an important connection for nearby residents and businesses to access the Delaware Riverfront Trail, park space, groceries, as well as retail and employment opportunities.
Project Features
Improvements along Washington Avenue from 4th Street to Columbus Boulevard include:
- Resurfacing of Washington Avenue from 4th Street to Columbus Boulevard
- New curb, curb bump-outs at intersections, and ADA ramps
- Shorter crosswalk distances and four new center median islands
- Bi-directional multi-use path for people walking and biking along the southern side of the roadway
- Parking separated westbound bike lane along the northern side of the roadway
- Removal of slip lane from 4th Street to 3rd Street (at Jefferson Square Park) and under I-95
- Improvements to Washington Avenue and Columbus Boulevard intersection, including a connection between the new multi-use path and the Delaware River Trail
- Traffic signal improvements
- Pedestrian scale street lighting
- New street trees and landscaping
The Department of Streets is collaborating with the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation to complete this project. These improvements advance our mutual goals of improving traffic safety and expanding access to the waterfront’s many recreation, transportation, and commercial features.
Together, we create a Safer, Cleaner, Greener Philadelphia, with economic opportunity for all.
Construction Overview
With the anticipated mid-week start of April 21, construction will take place along Washington Avenue, from 4th Street to Columbus Boulevard. To maintain flow of traffic along the corridor throughout the length of construction, construction will be phased. However, temporary lane closures will be required, as well as parking restrictions while completing work.
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 contact the 3rd Police District at 215-686-3030 to determine its location. Motorists are advised to allow extra time when traveling around the work area.
Work is expected to be completed by Spring 2026. The construction contract has been awarded to Heidelberg Materials TDPC LLC. The value of the construction contract is about $9.5M, and is being funded using City Capital, State GLG Grant, and DRWC Grant funds.
The Streets Department would like to express its gratitude to residents and motorists in advance for their patience and cooperation throughout the duration of this project.
For more project details, please visit DRWC’s project webpage: www.delawareriverwaterfront.com
Media Contacts:
Streets Department
Christopher Young, Streets@phila.gov
Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
Kaitlyn Haney, Khaney@signature57.com
Lauren Schmalz, LSchmalz@signature57.com