Basiliere Bridge project - Haverhill

PFC Ralph T. Basiliere Bridge repairs between February 21 and March 2 are now complete. 16 beams were installed in the span over the Bradford Rail Trail allowing vehicles to use the full cross section of the bridge at this location. Temporary markings and barrier were installed to channelize traffic at the span between the bridge’s towers reducing stress on the bridge’s outer edges. Motorists crossing the bridge are reminded there are two lanes towards downtown Haverhill and one lane towards Bradford at this location. All lanes and sidewalks including the Bradford Rail Trail are now open.

These repairs were not the beginning of the replacement of the Basilire Bridge, but part of a program to ensure that the structure can remain safely open to traffic while MassDOT selects a design/builder to construct a replacement for the existing bridge. As of August 2025, proposals have been reviewed by a MassDOT Selection Committee, the Department has identified an apparent best value proposer and is now going through the formal award process.

Notice to Proceed is expected to be given to the winning Design-Build team late this summer, with construction anticipated to begin before the end of the year. Before work begins, an introductory public meeting will be held, a new construction phase fact sheet will be made available, and the project website will be revised to support regular construction period updates. If you are curious to see what a project website for a job in active construction looks like, we invite you to visit this site.