The construction of the new Rourke Bridge over the Merrimack River in Lowell, Massachusetts, has officially commenced, offering residents a unique opportunity to witness a significant infrastructure project firsthand. Increased activity is visible along Pawtucket Boulevard near Old Ferry Road, where construction crews have begun extensive site preparations for the new bridge.
Site Preparations Underway
As of January 2024, site work is in full swing, with crews marking various locations with orange construction barrels and flags. These markers indicate wetland boundaries, clearing limits, and erosion controls, as confirmed by John Goggin from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. The construction site is located near an abandoned lift station, where survey teams are actively working to prepare for the upcoming phases of the project.
According to Goggin, “Cofferdam work is expected to start this winter season.” This involves constructing temporary structures that will allow workers to safely build the six bridge piles necessary for the new span. Heavy machinery, including a backhoe and dump truck, is currently on site to remove existing materials and prepare a laydown yard for staging supplies.
Design and Features of the New Bridge
The new bridge will feature a six-span, seven-girder steel structure designed to significantly enhance traffic flow. It will be three times wider than the existing two-lane bridge, accommodating four lanes with shoulders—two lanes in each direction. The bridge is also designed to include dedicated bicycle and pedestrian access, reflecting a commitment to multi-modal transportation.
With a projected lifespan of 75 years, the new Rourke Bridge will not only improve vehicular traffic but also provide open sight lines of the river, unlike the older structure, which had a more confined, cage-like design. Pedestrians walking along the Vandenberg Esplanade on the north side of the river will have an excellent vantage point to observe the construction.
As the project progresses, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to take note of the ongoing developments and prepare for the transformation of this vital transportation link. The construction of the new Rourke Bridge is set to be a landmark event for the city of Lowell, promising to enhance both accessibility and aesthetics in the area.
