In a race against time and inclement weather, officials in Philadelphia called in a massive jet dryer from a nearby race track to aid in the reopening of a collapsed section of Interstate 95. The unique piece of equipment, borrowed from Pocono Raceway, is set to ensure that the highway reopens this weekend as originally promised by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
The jet dryer, typically used to prevent wet tracks at the renowned raceway, is a remarkable contraption that features a modified helicopter turbine attached to the back of a Chevy Silverado. The decision to bring in the dryer was made by PA Transportation Secretary Mike Carroll, who had prior experience working with racetrack officials during his tenure in the region.
Ricky Durst, Senior Marketing Director at Pocono Raceway, acknowledged their longstanding relationship with Mr. Carroll, stating, “We’ve known Mr. Carroll for a number of years. He knew the raceway well, knew that we often had to deal with weather circumstances during our events, and knows that we have the ability and the tools to dry asphalt.” Additionally, a Chevy Camaro pace car was reportedly brought to the scene, although its specific role in the asphalt drying process remains unclear.
Time to call in the jet dryer! ? pic.twitter.com/K0FaLe5rAH
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) June 22, 2023
Workers diligently worked overnight to pave the six-lane segment, effectively reconnecting the highway around the collapsed section ahead of the anticipated weekend reopening. The arrival of the jet dryer comes as a welcome development for Governor Shapiro, who confidently declared, “I can confidently state right here, right now, that traffic will be flowing here on I-95 this weekend… We have completed every phase of this project safely and way ahead of schedule.” The section of the overpass collapsed last weekend following a fiery explosion involving a tanker truck, tragically resulting in the loss of the driver’s life and necessitating the closure of traffic for the entire workweek.
Meanwhile, amidst the public’s keen interest in the I-95 reconstruction progress, Twitch streamer Brent Schooley found an opportunity for lighthearted engagement. The Philadelphia-based software developer launched a live stream titled “FIX THAT JAWN!” to provide a chatroom for memes and entertainment for those monitoring the progress. Although some speculated that it was a calculated move by the Governor’s PR team to engage the younger demographic, Manuel Bonder, Press Secretary for Governor Shapiro, clarified that the project emerged organically. Bonder remarked, “It’s another example of how this has truly taken a life of its own.”
As the jet dryer roars into action and the final preparations are made, residents eagerly anticipate the reopening of the crucial stretch of I-95, confident that this collaborative effort will restore normalcy to their daily commutes and ensure safer travels for all.
