Skanska is working on a $303 million bridge replacement contract in Lowell, Massachusetts for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The package of works for the replacement of the Rourke Bridge includes demolishing and removing the existing structure, as well as designing and building the new bridge.
The Rourke Bridge is a key transportation link over the Merrimack River in Lowell, and carries about 27,000 vehicles/day. The existing bridge was built in 1983 as a temporary structure.
However, the existing bridge is not able to cope with the number of vehicles it has to handle while its bicycle and pedestrian features do not meet current multi-modal and ADA standards. It is nearing the end of its useful service life and its supporting substructure is showing signs of deterioration according to MassDOT.
A Corridor Study and Feasibility Analysis of the Rourke Bridge and surrounding streets took place in 2013. The study looked at replacing the Rourke Bridge with a permanent structure, and if the existing location is the most suitable. It developed a series of recommendations to improve mobility for residents, businesses and visitors.
Based on the Feasibility Study, MassDOT is now moving forward with the replacement of the Rourke Bridge. The process will include preliminary design, environmental permitting, and construction.
The project was advertised under MassDOT’s Design-Build Program and awarded to Skanska USA and Jacobs Engineering. The design-build project involves the design and construction of a new, relocated Rourke Bridge, which will carry Wood Street over the Merrimack River in Lowell. The project consists of a new seven-span bridge, intersection reconstruction at both ends of the new bridge, bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, as well as stormwater infrastructure improvements, highway lighting, landscaping, and utility relocations. The existing bridge will remain open for use until the completion of the new structure. Upon opening of the new bridge, the existing bridge will be demolished. Work is expected to be complete in February 2030.
“The reconstruction of the new Rourke Bridge will further support the planned growth in this region to accommodate future traffic demand and will improve the overall safety and operational efficiency at this crossing of the Merrimack River,” said Paul Pedini, senior vice president of operations at Skanska USA Civil. “Skanska looks forward to helping design and build another essential piece of infrastructure that will enhance the transportation experience of the local community.”
