Lowell – Representative Rady Mom shared an update on the construction of a new Rourke Bridge today.

On Wednesday, Representative Mom attended the Rourke Bridge Working Group meeting. During the meeting, MassDOT officials provided members of the Lowell Delegation with an update on the long overdue replacement project.

“From day one in the legislature, I have been a fierce advocate for building a new bridge,” Representative Mom said. “I would love to make sure that this project is put forward sooner than later. The concern of my constituents is overwhelming and understandably so.”

According to MassDOT, the project will be advertised in the third quarter of 2024. From there, construction is expected to start in the third quarter of 2025. Once construction has started, it will take approximately three years, with a ribbon cutting anticipated in 2028.

During the meeting, Representative Mom pushed the urgency of the project both for safety and the needs of residents in Lowell and surrounding communities.

“The Rourke Bridge is a critical link for our entire region, but particularly for the City of Lowell,” Representative Mom said.

While the new bridge project moves forward, MassDOT assured members of the working group that the existing bridge is receiving regular inspections and maintenance work to ensure it remains operational is scheduled.

During the meeting, Representative Mom asked about the fluctuating cost of construction materials. Current projections put the cost of the project at $190 million. MassDOT officials said the figure was their best estimate based on their work throughout the state and they would work to get the most competitive bids.

The new Rourke Bridge is a design-build project which MassDOT says will allow for a more expeditious project, combining certain elements of the design and building process.

The new Rourke Bridge will feature two lanes on each side and align with Old Ferry Road on the Pawtucketville side of the bridge. There will be two shared 8-foot path for cyclists and pedestrians, as well as a 2-foot buffer between road traffic.

Recently, MassDOT has been working in the area of the bridge to determine the soil profile and locations of borings, of which there will be 16.

A public forum on the replacement of the Rourke Bridge will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 6. To learn more about the hearing or to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/ysdea9df.