UPDATE (6/5/2019): The sinkhole at 43rd and Baltimore was caused by a major sewer line break, according to SEPTA. Although the hole is only about 3 feet long on the surface, it extends approximately 20 feet across below the surface. While the Philadelphia Water Department crews are working to repair the hole (it might take a while), the Route 34 will continue to operate as a shuttle bus between 61st Street and the 40th Street Portal. Stay tuned for further announcements.
(6/4/2019, 9:53 a.m.): A large sinkhole has opened up at the intersection of 43rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, right in the middle of the Route 34 trolley line. The intersection is currently closed to traffic while constructions crews are preparing to dig up the street. As of 4:50 a.m. this morning, all Route 34 trolleys are being replaced by buses:
Rte 34: Shuttle buses will operate in both directions between 40th Street Portal and 61st and Baltimore Ave due to a sinkhole. Expect delays until further notice.
— SEPTA (@SEPTA_TRL_34) June 4, 2019
This sinkhole is just the latest in a long battle between developers, builders, planners and Mill Creek. This short film from four years ago shows the history.
The Buried River from Anne Whiston Spirn on Vimeo.
June 4th, 2019 at 1:13 pm
This is a disturbing turn of events that confirms community members are right to be concerned about the proposed development at 4224 Baltimore Ave., the lot next Clark Park right by the intersection where the sinkhole opened up. Local residents are looking for answers from the owner and developer of the property about what the environmental impact on the surrounding area will be if the large structure that is currently proposed ends up being built.
June 4th, 2019 at 8:07 pm
What is the development corp/who is the developer ?
June 5th, 2019 at 3:21 pm
It would be cool if the new development had it’s own sewage treatment plant AND trash incinerator.
June 11th, 2019 at 4:18 pm
I bet Jamie Gauthier is behind this sinkhole.