Government officials held a groundbreaking event to mark the start of the $280 million I-95/896 interchange project.
“There’s nothing more important that keeping Delaware drivers safe. Since this interchange first opened 60 years ago, we have seen continued growth along the Route 896 corridor and the resulting higher traffic volumes that come with it. Modernizing this interchange will improve safety for the thousands of people who travel through this area every day,” said Gov. John Carney.
Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski said, “There have been more than 700 crashes at this interchange since 2019 due to congestion and the current configuration. This project is necessary in order to greatly reduce these incidents that cause serious injuries or worse. We appreciate the input we received throughout the planning process from residents and the business community to develop a project that accomplishes our goal of minimizing crashes and keeping traffic moving.”
The current interchange has merge and exit points with a high potential for accidents. Preliminary work has been underway that included clearing trees. That drew some criticism among Newark-area residents. The project will lead to detours and ramp closings during the construction period. (See map).
The construction project includes reconfiguration of existing interchange ramps, widening of I-95 northbound and southbound, widening and rehabilitation of existing bridges on I-95 and SR 896, and construction of new bridges, retaining walls, sign structures, and lighting. A separated path will also span the interchange providing a connection for bicycle and foot traffic from Newark to Glasgow.
The more than $280 million project is expected to be completed by the end 2025. Additional project information can be found at 95896improvements.com.
