Cargo ship hits Tacony–Palmyra Bridge; span stuck open
Span jammed open after collision; bridge closed and inspectors are assessing damage.
A cargo ship struck the Tacony–Palmyra Bridge over the Delaware River, leaving the span jammed in its open position and halting traffic between Palmyra, New Jersey, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Bridge stuck open; inspections underway
After the collision the bridge remained stuck open, causing heavy congestion—particularly on the Philadelphia-bound side. Local authorities reported there were no injuries.
The bridge is roughly 1,115 meters long, forms part of Route 73 and has three traffic lanes: two lead toward Philadelphia and one toward New Jersey. Estimates from 2025 put daily traffic across the crossing at up to 76,200 vehicles.
Officials closed the bridge to vehicles and pedestrians until further notice. Inspectors carried out an assessment to determine the condition of the structure and the extent of any damage.
The Tacony–Palmyra Bridge opened in 1929. According to the Federal Highway Administration, the crossing was rated as "satisfactory", with its superstructure and substructure rated "solid".
Photo: press material from the event
