More bridge repairs create closures on I-495 North in Delaware

Drivers can expect month-long lane and ramp closures on Terminal Avenue and I-495 North for bridge repairs starting 8 p.m. on Thursday.

The bridge over Terminal Avenue on I-495 North is in need of joint replacement. But in order to fix it, the Delaware Department of Transportation will have to enforce road closures starting Thursday night that are expected to last until the end of November.

The right lane and shoulder of I-495 North, and the Terminal Avenue on-ramp to I-495 North, will close. This means only two lanes will be open in the first two weeks of repairs and only one lane will remain open during the second phase.

Charles Freel, the New Castle County Legislative Liaison for DelDot’s community relations, said the bridge isn’t dangerous for drivers, as DelDot has already made temporary repairs. But permanent repairs need to be made as soon as possible, he said. 

Freel said motorists can expect some delays on I-495 North and I-95 North during the month-long repairs.

“I don’t think there will be major impacts for the first two weeks, but you will have delays on the second two weeks where we are down to one lane of traffic,” he said. “Traffic will move but it will be slower than the normal work day.”

Motorists can use I-495 South onto Exit 1/U.S. Route 13 South, stay left on the ramp to the intersection of U.S. Route 13 and enter the I-495 North on-ramp to get back onto the highway.  Drivers should be cautious of construction crews and shifting of lanes on I-495 northbound. Message boards will be posted for motorists.

“Slow down and take your time when you’re going through a work zone,” Freel said. “In the second phase if there’s another route you can use, take other routes.”