Background
The Rourke Bridge is a critical transportation link over the Merrimack River in Lowell. The bridge carries about 27,000 vehicles per day. The existing bridge was built in 1983 as a temporary bridge.
The bridge’s vehicle capacity is deficient and 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.
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.
Additional Resources
Current Schedule
2019-2020 – Data Collection
2020-2021 – Project Development
2021-2022 – Conceptual Design
2022-2023 – Preliminary Engineering
2023-2024 – Environmental Permitting and Right-of Way Acquisition
2024-2025 – Design-Build Procurement
2025-2028 – Construction
Contact for About the Rourke Bridge Replacement Project
Online
Phone
Public and Legislative Liaison, MassDOT Government & Community Affairs