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Hurricane Irene Could Impact DRPA Bridges And PATCO

Delaware River Port Authority and PATCO officials are keeping a careful watch on the path of Hurricane Irene and the possible impact it could have on the region.

Flooding and high winds could result in the temporary closing of the Walt Whitman, Ben Franklin, Commodore Barry or Betsy Ross Bridge and suspension of PATCO train service.

DRPA CEO and PATCO President, John J. Matheussen, says “safety is our number one concern.  When wind speeds reach 35 miles an hour an empty tractor trailer and motorcycle ban is imposed on the Commodore Barry Bridge and possibly other bridges as well.  As winds increase a decision will be made on whether to keep a bridge open taking into account the safety of our customers and our employees.”

Matheussen adds “the issues PATCO may have to deal with include power outages, trees or debris on tracks and flooding of the third rail.”  If there are high sustained winds PATCO will operate at reduced speeds.

The DRPA will make every effort to keep its bridge facilities and PATCO open as long as conditions are deemed safe to do so.  The DRPA is working closely with both  PA and NJ State Transportation Departments, City of Philadelphia, and other bi-state agencies.

Matheussen concludes by saying “we are monitoring Hurricane Irene closely and a command center will be established at 9pm on Saturday as staff from Public Safety, Engineering, Bridge Operations and Administration will determine what if any action needs to be taken at a moment’s notice.”

In advance of the storm, the decision was made to close the Ben Franklin Bridge pedestrian walkway on Saturday and Sunday. The RiverLink ferry also will not operate on Saturday or Sunday.

DRPA officials strongly advise that motorist avoid any and all unnecessary travel during this storm.

The Delaware River Port Authority is a regional transportation agency.  DRPA owns and operates the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry and Betsy Ross Bridges, and PATCO.  The DRPA also owns the RiverLink Ferry.

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