MBTA set to replace Commercial Street Bridge

Current Commercial Street Bridge set for replacement later this month.

MBTA

The MBTA's Capital Delivery Bridge & Structures team will replace the Commercial Street Bridge in Lynn, Mass. from Sept. 16-20.

This bridge replacement is part of MBTA’s Capital Program which, according to MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak, includes “modernization and safety work to replace six bridges on various commuter rail lines.” Poftak added, “We know the traffic impacts and service diversion resulting from the bridge replacement can be a frustration to drivers, riders, and others, and we appreciate the patience of the community while we work to complete this critical project.”

The payoff will be “a brand new bridge that provides safer, more reliable service to Newburyport/Rockport Line riders,” Poftak said.

The Commercial Street Bridge carries the Newburyport/Rockport commuter rail line over Commercial Street in Lynn between River Works station and Lynn Station. The steel bridge, which was built in 1913, is nearing the end of its useful life and will be replaced to meet the MBTA’s reliability and modernization needs. The new bridge will have a projected service life of 75 years and will reduce future maintenance costs and service impacts. The project is anticipated to be complete this fall.

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