Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont announced that the major traffic artery connecting New England with New York will be closed for days after a tanker fire damaged a bridge on Interstate 95. The closure resulted from a three-vehicle crash involving a tanker truck carrying gasoline that burst into flames. While there were no serious injuries reported, the crash caused significant damage to the bridge above the highway. The governor stated that the bridge will have to be demolished and reconstruction will begin immediately.
Due to the extensive damage caused by the fire, the Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner mentioned that the bridge, which was less than 10 years old, needs to be entirely removed for safety reasons. The tanker was carrying approximately 8,500 gallons of gasoline when the crash occurred, causing severe structural damage to the bridge. The demolition process is scheduled to begin on Friday morning, with estimates suggesting it could take up to 24 hours to complete. Large equipment is being brought in to facilitate the removal of the bridge.
The closure of Interstate 95 has led to significant traffic congestion in the area, with major delays expected to continue through the weekend. Local authorities are advising residents to use alternative transportation methods such as the MetroNorth commuter rail. Traffic detours have been put in place to redirect vehicles away from the affected area. In anticipation of the closure, text alerts were sent to residents in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, as well as to trucking companies using that section of the highway.
The governor highlighted the potential economic impact of the bridge closure on the city of Norwalk, which relies heavily on the artery for transportation. He expressed hope for federal reimbursement to cover the cost of replacing the bridge, a process that may take up to a year to complete. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and no charges have been filed against any party involved. The situation is further complicated by the necessity to clean up environmental hazards resulting from the spilled gasoline and firefighting foam.
This incident is reminiscent of previous accidents involving tanker trucks on Interstate 95, including a fatal crash in Philadelphia and a similar incident in Connecticut. The recent closure of the Gold Star Memorial Bridge due to a fuel truck fire highlights the potential dangers associated with transporting hazardous materials on major highways. Authorities are working diligently to address the aftermath of the crash, ensuring the safety of residents and preventing further environmental damage. The impact of the closure on commuters and businesses is expected to be significant, underscoring the importance of infrastructure maintenance and emergency preparedness.
