Skanska Wins $1.06 Billion MBTA Contract for North Station Bridge and Rail Upgrades in Massachusetts

BOSTON — Skanska has been awarded a $1.06 billion contract by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to replace the North Station Draw One bridges and complete major rail infrastructure upgrades across Boston, Cambridge and Somerville, the company announced May 6.

The large-scale transportation project is designed to modernize one of the region’s most heavily used commuter rail corridors, which serves more than 11 million passengers annually. Engineering, planning and design firm VHB will serve as the design partner under the design-build agreement.

The project includes replacing the existing 1930s-era Draw One bascule bridges spanning the Charles River with modern vertical lift bridges intended to improve rail operations, increase reliability and support long-term ridership growth across the MBTA commuter rail network.

“We are proud to partner with the MBTA on this transformative infrastructure investment that will enhance reliability, and support the region’s growing transit needs,” said Paul Pedini, senior vice president of Skanska USA Civil. “By leveraging innovative design and construction solutions, our team will deliver a future-ready rail network while maintaining uninterrupted service for the passengers who rely on it every day.”

The project will also expand rail capacity by increasing the number of tracks crossing the river from four to six, helping reduce congestion and improve operational flexibility.

Major Rail and Signal Improvements Planned

In addition to replacing the bridge structures, the contract includes extensive upgrades to tracks, signals and Positive Train Control systems aimed at improving safety, resiliency and operational efficiency throughout the corridor.

The scope of work also includes improvements to approach trestles, construction of a new Tower A control facility and development of a new Platform F at North Station.

According to project officials, the upgrades are expected to streamline rail operations while supporting future commuter rail growth in the Greater Boston region.

“The replacement of the Draw One bridges is one of the most significant infrastructure investments in the MBTA Commuter Rail system,” said Ricky Carey, design manager for VHB. “Once complete, these new structures will deliver lasting benefits to one of the region’s busiest transportation corridors.”

Skanska said the project team plans to use Alternative Technical Concepts to simplify construction staging, reduce in-water work and improve overall construction safety.

Construction to Continue While Rail Service Remains Active

One of the project’s primary challenges will involve maintaining active commuter rail and Amtrak service throughout construction. Officials said the work will be carefully phased to minimize disruptions for daily passengers while major infrastructure upgrades are completed.

The modernization effort is part of broader initiatives to improve aging transportation infrastructure throughout the Northeast and strengthen regional transit connectivity.

Construction is scheduled to begin this month, with substantial completion anticipated in fall 2032.

The North Station corridor serves as a critical transportation link for MBTA commuter rail operations and intercity rail traffic entering downtown Boston. Transportation officials say the improvements will help address long-term reliability concerns while accommodating future passenger demand.

Skanska, one of the world’s largest construction and development firms, has delivered major transportation, commercial and infrastructure projects throughout the United States and globally.

Originally reported by Skanska USA.