Traffic and construction updates - Rourke Bridge replacement project

Designing 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.

November 2025

What is happening?

• Crews will refresh the painted lane markings on the current Rourke Bridge for improved visibility and safety.
• Erosion control measures will be installed within the project area in advance of vegetation removal later this year.
• The contractor will establish a long-term construction staging area along the shoulder of eastbound Pawtucket Boulevard between the driveway of the Lowell City Water utilities building and the Rourke Bridge.

When is this work happening?

• POSTPONED - Crews will refresh the painted lane markings on the existing Rourke Bridge overnight from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., anticipated later this month in November. This work, originally scheduled for November 6, has been postponed due to weather and will be rescheduled to a later date to be announced.
• Erosion control measures will be installed on weekdays beginning Monday, November 10, and continue weekdays through November 2025.
• The contractor will establish a construction staging area along eastbound Pawtucket Boulevard beginning the week of Monday, November 17. Signage will be installed in advance.
• Typical work hours are 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, unless otherwise noted.
• All operations are weather dependent and subject to change.

How will this affect you?

• In order for crews to paint lane markings, the existing Rourke Bridge will be closed temporarily overnight from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning. Specific dates will be announced.
  • When approaching from the south side of the bridge to reach Pawtucket Boulevard:
    • Continue onto Middlesex Street eastbound.
    • Turn left onto School Street.
    • Turn left on Pawtucket Boulevard.
  • When approaching from the north side of the bridge to reach Middlesex Street/Wood Street:
    • Continue on Pawtucket Boulevard eastbound.
    • Turn right on School Street.
    • Turn right on Middlesex Street.

Detour map

• Intermittent shoulder or lane closures may be required for the erosion control work, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• The eastbound shoulder on Pawtucket Boulevard between the driveway of the Lowell City Water utilities building and the Rourke Bridge will be closed long-term for the establishment of the construction staging area.

Coming soon!

• Tree and vegetation removal within the project limits is anticipated to begin later this year. Prior to this work, erosion control measures are being installed.
• Construction of the temporary trestle in the Merrimack River is anticipated to begin later this fall. The trestle will serve as access for crews to construct the new Rourke Bridge

Archive traffic & construction updates 

Stay connected

• For more information on the Rourke Bridge Replacement Project, and to view the meeting materials from the July 15, 2025, Public Information Meeting, please visit our documents and meetings materials page.