PATCO set to begin Ben Franklin Bridge Track Rehabilitation Project next week

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
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Nico Brussels

Port Authority Transit Corporation (PATCO) is ready to start a two-year, $103-million track rehabilitation project on the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, which connects the New Jersey and Philadelphia portions of the system.

 

The project consists of replacing the entire30-year–old track system on the bridge, replacing railroad systems and performing structural rehabilitation to keep the PATCO system in good repair.

The scope of work includes:

  • Replacing 33 miles of signal, power and communications cable
  • Constructing 80 new signal, communication and electrical enclosures
  • Replacing 8,878 bridge timber ties and six miles of welded rails
  • Using 180 tons of new steel in the rehabilitation
  • Installing 1,300 feet of new rail at Camden Yard

For 60 days beginning in early June and then again for 50 days later in the summer, crews will work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to replace and upgrade the PATCO rails and supporting structure on the bridge. During these periods, only one PATCO track will be in use instead of the usual two tracks. By working continuously during these periods, the project will finish sooner and not be prolonged by setting up and breaking down the work site each day.

The need to create enough work space for equipment used by the contractors will result in a reduced number of driving lanes on the Ben Franklin Bridge.

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