The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has awarded Skanska a contract valued at around $1bn to undertake the replacement of the North Station Draw One Bridge and associated track and signal upgrades across Boston, Cambridge and Somerville, Massachusetts, in the US.
The scope of the project includes the removal of the current 1930s-era bascule bridges and the construction of new vertical lift spans, upgrades to approach trestles, integrated track, signal and Positive Train Control improvements, as well as the construction of a new Tower A control facility.
The works also lay the groundwork for a new Platform F at North Station and expansion from four to six tracks over the Charles River.
To maintain uninterrupted commuter rail and Amtrak operations during construction, Alternative Technical Concepts will be used to minimise service interruptions and in-water work.
The project aims to accommodate more than 100,000 daily passengers who depend on the MBTA’s north-side network.
Construction is expected to commence in May 2026, with a targeted completion in autumn 2032.
MBTA initiated preliminary design in 2019, with the current design-build procurement under way.
The existing drawbridge, carrying four tracks over the Charles River, will be replaced to support six tracks, improving connections for the Haverhill, Lowell, Newburyport/Rockport and Fitchburg Commuter Rail lines.
The awarded contract includes demolition of the old structures, extension of platforms, connection of additional tracks to the existing network, and enhancements to related infrastructure and communication systems.
Updates will extend roughly 1.5 miles from North Station and require modifications to adjacent pedestrian infrastructure, such as the North Bank Pedestrian Bridge.
New drainage systems will also be installed as part of the comprehensive works.
Signal Tower A, situated north of the drawbridge, will be rebuilt to replace an existing temporary facility, with the transfer of its control systems to the new structure.
Once finished, the completed project is expected to deliver additional track capacity, upgrade existing facilities and improve the safety and efficiency of rail operations on this segment.
