LOWELL, MA — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), alongside federal, state, and local leaders, officially broke ground on the long-awaited Rourke Bridge replacement project in Lowell. The $303 million initiative, funded in part through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will deliver a modern, permanent structure to replace the temporary bridge that has served the community for decades.

Governor Maura Healey said the project is critical for both safety and economic vitality. “The Lowell Rourke Bridge Replacement Project will result in smoother, faster commutes and restore a critical link for the Greater Lowell community and economy,” Healey stated. “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.”

Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt emphasized the project’s impact on all roadway users. “The Rourke Bridge is more than just a way to cross the Merrimack; it’s a lifeline for Lowell and the surrounding region,” Tibbits-Nutt said. “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.”

Senator Edward J. Markey highlighted the federal role in funding. “I’m proud to help deliver $251 million in federal funding for a milestone decades in the making: the replacement of the Rourke Bridge,” he said. “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.”

Congresswoman Lori Trahan echoed those sentiments, underscoring the project’s role in strengthening community ties. “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 Trahan. “This project is about more than just reducing traffic – it’s about connecting neighborhoods, improving safety, and investing in Lowell’s future.”

The new Rourke Bridge will feature two travel lanes in each direction, dedicated shoulders, sidewalks, and shared-use paths for pedestrians and cyclists. In addition to the bridge itself, intersections on Wood Street, Pawtucket Boulevard, and Old Ferry Road will be reconstructed to improve safety and reduce congestion.

MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver stressed the broader significance of the project. “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. Once complete, the finished product will be a landmark structure that will meet the city’s dynamic transportation needs well into the future.”

Lowell Mayor Daniel P. Rourke, for whom the bridge is named, called the event a turning point. “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.”

The project is being delivered under a Design-Build model by Skanska USA Civil and Jacobs Solutions Inc. Skanska executives pledged to execute the job efficiently and safely. “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.”

Construction began in summer 2025, with the bridge expected to open to traffic in 2029 and full project completion in 2030.

For more details and project updates, visit MassDOT’s official project page.

Originally reported by Mass. Gov.