Press Release  MassDOT Breaks Ground on Rourke Bridge Replacement Project

LOWELL — In an event today in Lowell, Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver, Senator Ed Markey, Congresswoman Lori Trahan, and Lowell Mayor Daniel P. Rourke broke ground on the Rourke Bridge replacement project. This project will replace the existing Rourke Bridge with a new structure that meets modern design and safety standards, to improve mobility for all users. 

“The Lowell Rourke Bridge Replacement Project will result in smoother, faster commutes and restore a critical link for the Greater Lowell community and economy,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration is proud to support this project, and we are grateful for the strong leadership of Congresswoman Trahan and Senators Markey and Warren to secure this funding for our communities.” 

“The Rourke Bridge is more than just a way to cross the Merrimack; it’s a lifeline for Lowell and the surrounding region,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “Breaking ground on this project marks a major step toward a safer, stronger, and more connected future. With new lanes, sidewalks, and shared-use paths, the bridge will serve drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike, while modernized intersections will keep traffic moving safely and efficiently. I’m deeply grateful to our municipal partners, legislative delegation, and project team for their collaboration in delivering an investment that will strengthen this connection and benefit the community for generations.” 

“I’m proud to help deliver $251 million in federal funding for a milestone decades in the making: the replacement of the Rourke Bridge,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “This groundbreaking represents a bridge to a strong future for Lowell—a bridge between our federal, state, and local government, and a bridge between the communities of workers, immigrants, students, and scientists who embody the city of Lowell. At a moment when federal funding is under attack, this investment in Lowell—made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—demonstrates the power of what we can achieve when Congress partners with our states and municipalities to deliver transformative investments. I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll administration, Congresswoman Trahan, Senator Warren, City Manager Golden, Mayor Rourke, and state and local officials in Lowell for their dedication to making this project a reality.” 

“For decades, folks in Lowell have waited for a permanent solution to the Rourke Bridge, and today, we’re delivering. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re breaking ground on a safe, modern bridge that will finally meet the needs of Mill City residents,” said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. “This project is about more than just reducing traffic – it’s about connecting neighborhoods, improving safety, and investing in Lowell’s future. I was proud to fight for the funding that made this possible, and I’ll keep working to bring federal dollars home to deliver results for our community.” 

The new Rourke Bridge will include two travel lanes in each direction with shoulders, shoulders, sidewalks, and shared use paths on either side of the bridge for pedestrians and cyclists. Intersections at either end of the bridge will be reconstructed, as well as portions of Wood Street, Pawtucket Boulevard, and Old Ferry Road. The project will also provide enhanced safety and traffic operations. 

“The Rourke Bridge is a key crossing over the Merrimack River and the design of the replacement bridge is a major victory for both safety and mobility in the city of Lowell,” said Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver.  “Once complete, the finished product will be a landmark structure that will meet the city’s dynamic transportation needs well into the future.” 

"This groundbreaking marks a new era for one of Lowell's most important connections. The Rourke Bridge has been a lifeline for residents, businesses, and commuters, and this permanent replacement will make it safer, more accessible, and better equipped to serve our community for generations to come,” said Lowell Mayor Daniel P. Rourke. “We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Trahan, our federal and state partners, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make this happen." 

“The day for the Rourke Bridge groundbreaking ceremony has arrived, and Skanska Civil eagerly anticipates collaboration with MassDOT on another signature design build bridge project in Massachusetts,” said Paul Pedini, Senior Vice President of Operations at Skanska USA Civil. “Skanska wishes to thank MassDOT for the opportunity to participate in this important project and will work diligently to complete the project safely, on time, and on budget.”

This Design-Build project, which combines final design and construction into a single phase, is being built by Skanska USA and Jacobs Solutions Inc, under a $303 million contract. Project construction started in the summer of 2025, with the new bridge anticipated to be open to traffic in 2029, and final project completion in 2030.

For more information on the project, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/rourke-bridge-replacement-project.

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