MLK Drive in Philadelphia Closed for Emergency Repairs

Portion of road shut down as city crews work on water infrastructure issues

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A section of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Philadelphia has been closed to all traffic on Wednesday, February 11, as the Philadelphia Water Department performs "emergency infrastructure maintenance supporting the drinking water system." The closure, which began at 10 a.m., stretches from Sweet Briar Drive near the Philadelphia Zoo to Eakins Oval by the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and will remain in effect until further notice.

Why it matters

The closure of this major thoroughfare in Philadelphia will likely cause significant traffic disruptions in the area, as drivers are forced to seek alternate routes like Kelly Drive or I-76. The emergency repairs highlight the ongoing challenges cities face in maintaining aging water and transportation infrastructure.

The details

According to a notice from the city, the Philadelphia Water Department is conducting the "emergency infrastructure maintenance" that has led to the MLK Drive closure. The specific nature of the repairs being made is not clear, but they are described as supporting the city's drinking water system.

  • The road closed to all traffic starting at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Philadelphia Water Department

The municipal agency responsible for providing drinking water and wastewater services to the city of Philadelphia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The city has not provided an estimated timeline for when the repairs will be completed and MLK Drive will reopen to traffic.

The takeaway

This closure highlights the ongoing infrastructure challenges facing cities like Philadelphia, where aging water and transportation systems require frequent emergency maintenance that can disrupt daily life for residents and commuters.