Natick: MassDOT Breaks Ground on Marion Street Bridge
/ MassDOT Highway /
MassDOT today broke ground on a new bridge that will carry Marion Street over railroad tracks in Natick.
The new bridge will feature a single superstructure with steel beams, concrete deck with asphalt surface on existing abutments, and a 6-foot wide sidewalk.
Pedestrian access will be maintained during construction. Motorists can use North Avenue, Washington Street and East Central Street as detours.
"Transportation infrastructure serves a vital role for the 5 million travelers who use our system day in and day out, and when a bridge is closed that impact is felt in a very real way. It is an honor for MassDOT to work with local and elected officials and of course the residents of Natick and of MetroWest on this project, and we look forward to its completion," said MassDOT Highway Administrator Thomas J. Tinlin.
The original bridge was constructed in 1896 and rehabilitated five times between 1941 and 2003. The bridge was closed in September 2012 due to a structural deficiency in its deck.
State Representative David Linsky said, "This bridge is a vital route for the Town and its closure has created a great disruption for residents in the town of Natick and surrounding communities. State and town officials worked together for several years to bring this project to fruition. As a lifelong Natick resident, I am very much looking forward to utilizing the bridge again once it is reopened."
State Senator Richard J. Ross said, "I'm pleased to see this reconstruction project become a reality. The Marion Street Bridge is necessary for so many neighbors and commuters and it is crucial that we maintain a safe and accessible route for all."
The project is anticipated to be completed in the fall of 2017. MAS Building & Bridge was awarded a $3.2 million contract for the project.
Tags: highway
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