The St. Georges Bridge, along Delaware Route 13 and spanning the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, will officially reopen today, Friday, October 11, 2024, after being closed for 18 months. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Philadelphia District, the bridge’s long-awaited reopening follows a significant $45.8 million renovation project that began in April 2023.
Originally constructed in 1941, the bridge underwent extensive repairs, including the demolition and replacement of its decking, median barriers, and drainage systems, along with upgrades to the bridge approaches and structural components. The renovation, funded by federal Energy and Water appropriations, aimed to enhance the safety and functionality of this vital transportation link in New Castle County.
J.D. Eckman, Inc., the contractor responsible for the project, completed several key milestones leading up to the reopening. The completion of the work marks the end of a prolonged period of traffic disruption along Route 13, with motorists no longer needing to rely on alternate routes such as the Roth Bridge on Delaware Route 1. The reopening is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in the area.
The bridge closure, which has disrupted traffic along Route 13 and forced motorists to use alternate routes such as the Roth Bridge on Delaware Route 1, is expected to relieve traffic congestion once reopened. Crews are currently clearing chairs and other gear from this morning’s reopening ceremony. The bridge is expected to open by 2:00 and should be available for this afternoon’s commute. Stay tuned to the page for confirmation before heading out.