(Lindenwold, NJ) – Camden County Commissioner Al Dyer has been notified by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) that the right lane on I-295 northbound reopened this morning as the excavation work and investigation into the retaining wall collapse continues in Bellmawr.
“Even though the lane is now open, motorists should continue to expect ongoing congestion and delays associated with this project. If possible, you should plan an alternate route during peak travel times,” said Dyer, liaison to the Camden County Department of Public Works. “When the overall project is completed, it will alleviate much of the traffic congestion currently experienced on a daily basis. It will be a monumental change for this highway interchange creating a substantial upgrade to the current configuration.”
Beginning at 11 a.m. today, Wednesday, April 21, the right lane on I-295 northbound was reopened. It was closed on March 25 as a safety precaution and to allow construction vehicle access following the partial collapse of a retaining wall on part of the Direct Connection project. The wall was built as part of the new roadway being constructed, which was not open to traffic yet.
NJDOT is in the process of investigating the cause of the collapse with their contractors, designers, consultants and in-house staff. Excavation activities are still in progress and there may be a need for future lane closures as the work advances.
The work is part of the Direct Connection project that will provide a seamless route for I-295 motorists traveling through the interchange of I-295, I-76, and Route 42. The Direct Connection project has been divided into four separate construction contracts, with completion of the fourth and final contract expected in the fall of 2024. NJDOT’s project website provides construction activity schedules and updates.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors.