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.

Spring 2026

What is Happening? 

This Spring, the project contractor anticipates the following construction activities:

• Continuing construction of the temporary access platform on the north side of the Merrimack River and preparing the existing work zone on the south side including a construction access road.
• Mobilizing cranes, barges, and construction equipment into the Merrimack River.
• Conducting test borings and soil sampling in the river at future bridge pier locations.
• Construction of the temporary pier cofferdams. A cofferdam is a temporary, watertight enclosure that will allow crews to construct the bridge foundations and piers.
• Demobilization of equipment from the Rourke Brothers Memorial Boat ramp. For more information regarding the boat ramp, please visit this Office of Fishing and Boating Access site and contact the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
• Tree clearing to support utility work on northbound Middlesex Street at Wood Street Extension, at the corner of Middlesex Street and Columbia Street, and along the train tracks on the south side of the Merrimack River. Temporary lane closures on Middlesex Street and Wood Street Extension will be implemented during work hours.
• National Grid will relocate electrical utilities along the north side of Pawtucket Boulevard at the Rourke Bridge and along Middlesex Street between the Collegiate Charter School of Lowell entrance and Cornell Street.

When is this Work Happening? 

• Test borings and soil sampling in the river will begin as early as Monday, April 6.
• Construction of the temporary pier cofferdams will begin as early as Monday, April 6.
• National Grid work on Pawtucket Boulevard will begin as early as Monday, April 13.
• Tree clearing is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 18, and continue on weekdays through the end of April.
• Typical work hours are between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, unless otherwise noted.
• All activities are expected to continue through Spring 2026, weather permitting, and are subject to change.

How Will this Affect You? 

• 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 throughout this work.
• All work barges and equipment within the river are illuminated with lights at the corner of the barges.
• Drivers traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution.

Merrimack River Marine Coordination

• Construction operations will be taking place on the north side of the Merrimack River. The public is advised to travel on the south side of the Merrimack River between the UMass Lowell boathouse and the Rourke Brothers Memorial Boat Ramp.
• Additional details will be provided in future advisories and posted on the project webpage.
• Construction work operations are being coordinated with the regatta course installation for the regattas on May 9, May 10, and May 24.

Coming Soon, Spring and Summer 2026

• National Grid will continue utility relocation on the south side of the Merrimack River along Middlesex Street.
• Additional utility relocation work (Comcast and Verizon) is expected to start within the project limits.
• Construction of the drilled shafts for the pier foundations.
• Mobilization and set-up of the pile driving equipment in the existing work zone on the south side of the river.

Archive traffic & construction updates 

Stay connected

• For more information on the Rourke Bridge Replacement Project, please visit our website at this link.
• To submit comments online, please use this online comment form or send an email to [e-mail].
• If you have been forwarded this email, and would like to receive project updates and traffic advisories, please subscribe for updates.