Wednesday, September 30, 2015
MBTA Gloucester Drawbridge Presentation
For
some time I have been working to engage the MBTA to replace the bridge over the
Annisquam River in Gloucester. Reports indicate that this is one of the most
dangerous bridges in the state.
I am
pleased that the MBTA will offer a public presentation on the final design
plans for the Gloucester Drawbridge project on Thursday October 1st.
The 6:30 PM meeting at Gloucester City Hall is open to the public and will
outline the replacement of the bridge including new; foundations, track,
mechanical and electrical components, approach spans, and construction of a new
control tower on the Gloucester Station side of the river.
Construction
of the bridge, originally built in 1911, is expected to begin in 2016 with an
advertisement for construction contractors to be distributed in February.
The MBTA intends to reduce impact to rail traffic during construction by
building the bridge in stages. One half of the bridge will be demolished and
reconstructed at a time, while rail traffic is maintained on the other
half. While efforts will be made to minimize delays and gaps in service,
there will be limited occasions that will require construction over nights and
weekends; no rail operations will be allowed on the bridge at those times.
If
you would like further information about the scope of the project or have
particular concerns, you may contact the MBTA or my office.
