Traffic and construction updates - Rourke Bridge replacement project

Constructing a new Rourke Bridge to replace the temporary structure across the Merrimack River in Lowell.

Status

This webpage will be updated with current and upcoming traffic advisories and construction information. The project was advertised under MassDOT’s Design-Build Program and awarded to Skanska USA and Jacobs Engineering in May 2025.

Rourke Bridge construction progress camera

Live view of the Rourke Bridge construction project. This camera feed updates every two minutes. You may need to reload this webpage to see the latest image.

Summer 2026

What is Happening?  

This June through August 2026, the project contractor anticipates the following construction activities:

• Completion of the temporary access platform on the north side of the Merrimack River.
• Work on the temporary pier cofferdams will continue in the river followed by the construction of the future bridge pier foundations.  
• A cofferdam is a temporary, watertight enclosure that will allow crews to construct the bridge foundations and piers.
• Earthwork activities on the north side of the Merrimack River in advance of bridge foundation construction.
• Site preparation on the south side of the river, which will include establishing a construction access road, grading, and embankment work.
• Comcast, AT&T and Verizon will relocate telecom utilities along Pawtucket Boulevard and Middlesex Street.

When is this Work Happening?  

• The temporary access platform in the river will be completed in June.
• Installation of the pier cofferdams will continue through August. Construction of the bridge piers will begin in July and continue through the end of 2026.
• Earthwork activities in the north and south work zones, located on either side of the river, will take place through August.
• Typical work hours are between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, unless otherwise noted.

All activities are weather permitting and are subject to change.

How Will this Affect You? 

• Temporary lane reductions are expected during off-peak traffic hours on Pawtucket Boulevard and Middlesex Street at the Rourke Bridge. Construction vehicle access and material deliveries will occur at staging areas located off Pawtucket Boulevard and Wood Street Extension. Drivers should exercise caution and expect delays.
• Police details and appropriate signage will be deployed to assist traffic flow around the work zones when necessary.
• Access for pedestrians and emergency services will be maintained.
• All work barges and equipment within the river are illuminated with lights at the corner of the barges. All river users are advised to exercise caution in the project area.

Merrimack River Marine Coordination

• Construction operations will continue throughout the summer on the Merrimack River. The public is advised to follow all river signage and stay within the channel buoys between the UMass Lowell boathouse and the Rourke Brothers Memorial Boat Ramp.
• Construction work operations are being coordinated with the Southeast Asian Water Festival on August 15, 2026.

Coming Soon – Expected Fall 2026

• Construction of the bridge pier walls in the Merrimack River will begin this fall, following completion of the pier foundations.
• Pile driving for the bridge foundation and construction of the bridge approach wall on the north side of the Merrimack River will begin this fall.

Archive traffic & construction updates 

Stay connected

• For more information on the Rourke Bridge Replacement Project, please visit our website at this link.
• To reach the project team, please email [e-mail].
• If you have been forwarded this email, and would like to receive project updates and traffic advisories, please subscribe for updates.