Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is this project needed?
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The project will ease the significant congestion on northbound 95/295 through Churchmans Marsh during typical AM peak hours and summer weekends.
Northbound I-95 from the SR 1 interchange to northbound I-295 at the US Route 13 interchange experiences significant congestion during typical AM peak hours and summer weekends. The AM peak hour congestion is due to commuters traveling to the City of Wilmington and Philadelphia while summer weekend congestion is caused by travelers continuing along northbound I-295 to New Jersey and other northern destinations. This project to add a third northbound lane on I-295 to alleviate congestion in this part of the corridor.
What improvements will be made?
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Project improvements include:
- Reconstruction and pavement widening along I-95 NB to add a sixth travel lane and I-295 NB to add a third travel lane from Airport Rd, Exit 5A to US 13.
- Reconfiguring the I-95 NB, Exit 5A, Airport Rd to a roundabout to facilitate easier traffic operations at the intersection for motorists.
- Reconfiguring and lengthening the acceleration lane onto I-295 NB from SB SR 141, Exit 2 for improved safety and operation.
- Reconfiguring the US-13 interchange. Two ramps, one from I495 southbound and another from I295 northbound converge to a single lane for a short distance to access US 13 northbound or I295 northbound ramps. The project proposes maintaining two ramp lanes in this area to lengthen the weave condition for improved operation and safety.
- Upgrading overhead signage and lighting.
- Installing a new overhead variable message sign.
- Construction of one retaining wall to minimize environmental impacts.
- Improved drainage.
- Constructing a stormwater facility adjacent to the Airport Rd roundabout to collect and manage runoff from storm events.
- Incorporation of new intelligent transportation system devices.
When will the project be complete?
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The 295 project will begin construction in Summer 2024 and is expected to be completed in the Summer of 2026. The schedule will be updated throughout construction on the project website.
Will work be done at night?
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Yes, work will be done at night when temporary lane closures are needed to complete construction activities to minimize impacts to commuter traffic during daytime hours
Are closures and detours needed?
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Yes, closures and lane restrictions are needed during nights, weekends and extended closures to complete project construction. Detours will be provided when closures occur. Notice will be provided on this website and DelDOT’s website in advance of closures and lane restrictions. Click here for more information about detours and closures.
Will the detour routes be provided?
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Detour routes will be posted for all planned closures or major impacts to traffic with advanced public outreach performed to alert motorists in advance of the closure. Click here for more information about detours and closures.
Will there be any long term ramp closures?
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Yes, Exit 5A, Airport Rd, will be closed for approximately 60 days. The southbound SR 141 ramp onto northbound 295 will be closed for approximately 6 months. The northbound 295 ramp to northbound US 13 will be closed for approximately 8 months.
Will I-95 NB and I-295 NB be closed?
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I-95 NB and I-295 NB travel lanes will remain open for the duration of the project, except for limited overnight closures and unplanned traffic accidents. Installing new overhead sign structures will require closing the interstates at night as it is unsafe for vehicles to proceed through the work zone with heavy equipment setting the sign members. When closures are required, the contractor will be restricted to specific working hours and penalized if those hours are exceeded. Advance notices of closures will be posted on the website and emailed or texted to persons who sign up for updates.