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Cargo Ship Collision Leaves Tacony-Palmyra Bridge Stuck Open, Disrupting Cross-River Traffic
A cargo ship struck the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge on Thursday, leaving the span stuck in the open position and forcing drivers to find alternate routes between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. No injuries were reported, but officials have not said when the bridge will reopen.
A large cargo ship collided with the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge on Thursday, leaving the span stuck open and severing a key vehicular link between Philadelphia and South Jersey, according to Pennsylvania State Rep. Ed Neilson.
The crash occurred on Nov. 12, and the bridge has been unable to close since, blocking traffic in both directions. Officials are urging drivers who normally use the bridge to seek alternate routes, warning that the closure will likely push heavier congestion onto the region's other Delaware River crossings.
No injuries have been reported in the collision. Authorities have not said whether weather played a role, though the crash happened as severe storms moved through the Philadelphia region, a system that also prompted a tornado warning in Delaware.
There is no estimate yet for when the bridge will be repaired or reopened. The Tacony-Palmyra Bridge, which carries Route 73 traffic between Northeast Philadelphia and Palmyra, N.J., is a critical artery for commuters, freight and emergency responders, and its extended closure could strain surrounding bridges and local roads in the days ahead.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates on repair timelines and traffic impacts.