Cargo Ship Strikes Tacony-Palmyra Bridge, Disrupting Regional Traffic
The Strategic Alliance cargo ship struck the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge on November 12, causing a six-hour closure and significant traffic congestion between Philadelphia and New Jersey.
A Singapore-registered bulk carrier, the Strategic Alliance, struck the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge over the Delaware River shortly after 1 p.m. on November 12, 2026. The collision occurred while the drawbridge was open for marine traffic, initially leaving the structure unable to close and triggering major traffic backups in Philadelphia and New Jersey.
The Burlington County Bridge Commission closed the bridge to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic for more than six hours to conduct mechanical tests and structural inspections. Officials determined the damage was minor, affecting a metal railing and portions of a brick column. Two vehicle lanes reopened by approximately 8:40 p.m., although one lane remained closed for pedestrian sidewalk repairs.
No injuries were reported, and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore confirmed that the vessel sustained no major damage and caused no marine pollution. The United States Coast Guard moored the ship at a Kinder Morgan facility in Bristol, Pennsylvania, for inspection. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore is now coordinating with U.S. authorities and the vessel's management company to investigate the cause of the incident.
