Norwalk I-95 Bridge Demolition Begins After Tanker Explosion; Traffic Affected, Schools Closed

Norwalk, Connecticut residents are facing significant traffic disruptions following a harrowing incident on Friday involving a tanker truck filled with gasoline. The crash resulted in a massive fire and extensive damage along I-95, a vital artery connecting the East Coast. With warnings issued urging commuters and truck drivers to seek alternative routes, the situation took a new turn as crews rushed to the scene to initiate emergency demolition procedures. This unexpected development, compounded by the closure of schools, threatens to bring the city's traffic to a grinding halt.

Why this matters: The closure of I-95, a lifeline for travelers, has necessitated the shutdown of schools in the vicinity as preparations commence for the demolition of the severely damaged bridge. Governor Ned Lamont cautioned that the demolition process could span several days, exacerbating the shutdown and causing extensive traffic congestion. Work crews commenced operations at the overpass on Fairfield Avenue at the early hours of the morning, recognizing its significance as a key transportation link for those journeying between Connecticut and New York City.

"The intense heat from the fuel fire compromised the structural integrity of the bridge, necessitating its removal, which will commence promptly," Governor Lamont emphasized, as reported by the Post.

Reports indicate a staggering 13-mile traffic backlog on the southbound lanes of the Merritt Parkway in Fairfield, with significant delays also plaguing the northbound lanes and adjacent roads. Residents have been advised to either work remotely or remain at home to avoid exacerbating traffic woes, with urgent commuters encouraged to seek alternative routes. In response to the crisis, Norwalk schools have declared a holiday, with the potential for an extended closure pending further developments. Furthermore, the damaged section of I-95 is not expected to reopen until at least Monday.

"We've implemented staggered work schedules to alleviate traffic congestion, allowing individuals to commence work later or depart earlier," Mayor Harry Rilling remarked in a statement, acknowledging the collaborative efforts to mitigate the disruption.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling praised the governor, state, emergency, response and that of the town's fire and police departments, stating, "This could have been so much worse. We're very grateful that nobody was seriously injured." Utility workers are on-site, repairing damaged infrastructure, including a precariously hanging gas pipeline and 24 destroyed copper and fiber lines that caused Norwalk Hospital to lose internet and phone service.

Governor Lamont expressed hope that two-way commuting on I-95 would resume as early as Monday morning, calling it"heroic work. "He has filed an emergency declaration with the federal government to request reimbursement for the replacement of the 10-year-old Fairfield Avenue bridge. Demolition and rebuilding efforts are ongoing, so commuters are advised to plan accordingly and seek alternative routes to mitigate the massive traffic disruption caused by this devastating incident.

Key Takeaways

• Gas tanker crash on I-95 in Norwalk, CT causes massive fire and bridge damage.
• Gov. Lamont declares state of emergency, citing infrastructure and environmental concerns.
• Fairfield Avenue bridge to be demolished and rebuilt due to fire damage.
• I-95 closed in both directions, expected to reopen by Monday morning.
• Tens of thousands of commuters affected, with schools and businesses impacted.