Philadelphia House Delegation Reacts to I-95 Collapse Emergency
Delegation Members Working with City, State and Federal Officials on Response
Rep. Morgan B. Cephas June 11, 2023 | 2:06 PM
Philadelphia House Delegation Reacts to I-95 Collapse Emergency
Delegation Members Working with City, State and Federal Officials on Response
PHILADELPHIA, JUNE 11 – This morning, the Philadelphia House Delegation responded to the emergency in Northeast Philadelphia where a portion of Interstate 95 collapsed due to a vehicle fire. It appears that there were no injuries in the collapse, but city, state and federal agencies continue to fight the fire and investigate the disaster.
Chairwoman of the Philadelphia House Delegation Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila. stated, “First off, we want to send appreciation to all of the first responders on the scene of this crisis. Our delegation will remain in contact with the attending agencies and be of assistance where possible. We encourage all Philadelphians and commuters to stay informed of the changing dynamics around I-95 and surrounding streets in the Northeast.”
Chairman of the House Transportation Committee, Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila. is intricately involved in the response. "I'm on site with city, state and federal officials. We're assessing the situation and working with PEMA and the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management," Neilson said. "We will provide critical updates as soon as we have more details, but for now please stay away from the area."
Representative Pat Gallagher, D-Phila. represents the area around the emergency. “I am relieved that it appears no one was injured in the collapse of Northbound I-95, but there are still many questions about the accident and removing the rubble,” Gallagher stated. “We know it's a long road ahead to likely rebuild both sides of this bridge, so I ask our residents and neighbors to be patient as we navigate alternate commuting routes and altered daily life around this emergency.” Gallagher added, “A special thank you to the brave men and women of our Philadelphia Fire and Police Departments, OEM and the other agencies who have been involved in immediate response and recovery.”
Commuters and travelers are encouraged to find alternate routes around this section of I-95 for the foreseeable future. Additional up-to-date information can be found on the delegation social media channels, as well as the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management.