PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — After being closed for more than two years for major rehabilation work, the Chestnut Street Bridge has reopened.
The bridge, which connects Center City to University City, was built in 1861. It was closed in August of 2019 for the $105 million rehab project.
Dan and Sandy of Center City missed access to the bridge. "We really walk every so it's great to go to West Philly to see all of the restaurants over there, so I'm glad that it is open," said Dan.
"We waited so long for it to be done," added Sandy.
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Liz and Laurie echoed their sentiments. "This is weird, because we were just walking and planning to turn. I was like, 'Dude, the bridge is open,'" said Liz.
Laurie said she was very surprised. "Definitely bigger pathways, and it's amazing," she added.
Some drivers said the closure added 10 minutes or more to their commute time, as they were forced to use another bridge.
"I do have a car, and it has been a pain, actually, so I'm really happy to see there are more open avenues and ways to get around, and maybe cut down on some of the delays," said Brian, who rode his bike across.
"It was, like, 10 to 15 minutes [in delays]. It brought out the worst in people. You would hear a lot of horns in this area, so hopefully that will die down."
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For other bike riders like Kevin, the bike lanes make crossing a breeze.
"It was very frustrating. Every time I biked to the Schuylkill [River Trail], we would have to go all the way up to the Market [Street] Bridge, but now we can go straight to Center City," expressed Kevin.
"It really means the connection between the heart of the city to the heart of, you know, where all of the intelligent brains are and it really links it together and it brings life to the city."
"I do have a car, and it has been a pain, actually, so I'm really happy to see there are more open avenues and ways to ger around, and maybe cut down on some of the delays.
According to PennDOT, about 80% of the cost of the project was federally funded.
Just in time for the reopening, it's a look at gas prices!
