Better access to a Ben Franklin Bridge walkway from the Camden side took a major step forward Tuesday in the construction contract process for a proposed ramp that was redesigned to hold down costs.
A Delaware River Port Authority committee recommended Tuesday that the full board award two contracts later this month involving construction of the ramp to make it easier for bikers, pedestrians and people with disabilities to reach the walkway.
The bistate authority’s board is expected to approve the contract at its Aug. 16 meeting.
The committee unanimously recommended the authority award a $7.9 million contract to South State Inc. of Bridgeton to replace the existing stairwell with a ramp.
DRPA Chief Engineer Michael Venuto said this would improve accessibility to the bridge’s south walkway for bikers and people with disabilities.
Efforts to eliminate the stairway should begin by fall, he said, noting that bicycle and pedestrian traffic would be diverted to the bridge’s north walkway during construction.