The $30 million fix for South Philly's game-day gridlock
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Photo: Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
Pennsylvania is investing $30 million into a plan to ease traffic congestion around the South Philly Sports Complex.
Why it matters: For decades, Philly fans have faced a familiar dilemma: Leave games early to beat traffic, or stay and risk sitting in gridlock for hours.
The big picture: The projects will enhance the South Philly Sports Complex's reputation as a world-class sports destination ahead of the opening of a new Sixers arena and the arrival of a WNBA team, both expected in 2030, Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference Thursday.
- They're also expected to fuel continued economic growth at the nearby Navy Yard, PhilaPort and Bellwether District.
Driving the news: Two major infrastructure upgrades are already complete, while work on others — including a new westbound I-76 on-ramp from 7th Street — is set to begin immediately, PennDOT secretary Mike Carroll said.
- Studies for longer-term projects are expected to be completed by 2027, Carroll said.
- They'll help guide officials on what additional traffic enhancements are needed to improve flow for the millions of visitors who attend games and major events at the complex each year.
By the numbers: The complex hosted more than 370 events last year, bringing in roughly 8 million visitors, Shawn Jalosinski, executive director of the Sports Complex Special Services District, said at the news conference.
- It generates about $2.3 billion in economic impact for Philadelphia and supports thousands of jobs, per the Shapiro administration.
- And it'll be an even bigger hub this year, when it hosts World Cup matches, the MLB All-Star Game and a UFC championship bout.
What they're saying: Traffic in and around the South Philly Sports Complex has been the "No. 1 frustration" for fans for decades, Phillies owner John Middleton said during the news conference.
- Even Shapiro remembers, as a young boy, racing out of Phillies games in the ninth inning so he and his "pops" could beat the traffic.
- The governor called the improvements a generational plan that's "going to change the game" for South Philly.
Zoom in: Crews have already completed a second left turn lane from Front Street onto I-95 North, allowing roughly 500 additional vehicles per hour to access the highway, Carroll said.
What's ahead: The complex will get a new event operations hub and 19 smart, AI-assisted traffic signals designed to manage congestion and reduce bottlenecks in real time.
- The Delaware River Port Authority is transferring the land where the new I-76 ramp will be built to the state, which officials say will allow 800 additional vehicles per hour to access the highway.
- Traffic studies are being conducted on South Broad Street and the intersection of 26th Street and Penrose Avenue.