News

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) announced today that the $22 million, 3,000 foot re-decking project on the lower northbound level of the Tobin Bridge was completed on Saturday, nine months ahead of schedule.

The completed project means the end of alternating lane closures that have inconvenienced drivers since the latest phase of the Tobin re-decking project began 15 months ago. In total, approximately 12,000 feet of roadway on the lower level has been replaced. Another 2,000 feet of roadway remains to be re-decked in the future.

Motorists may still experience temporary, off-peak lane closures extending into November as finishing work is done. But the continuous lane closures have ended.

“This work is important to maintain the bridge in good condition and we are extremely happy it was completed early,” said Bridge Director Mary Jane O'Meara. “The last several months have been tough on our commuters, and we thank them for their patience and understanding throughout this important project.”

Beginning in July 2008, more than 3,000 feet of deck has been replaced starting just before the Little Mystic Truss and ending at the Beacon Street Off-ramp. Crews averaging 25 workers a day removed 672 cubic yards of asphalt and excavated nearly 1,000 cubic yards of concrete filling the steel grid deck. The deck was then refilled with concrete and covered with a rubberized pavement to protect the bridge’s steel and concrete components from water damage as well as to provide motorists with a smoother ride.

Additional work also included the replacement of expansion joints, a new drainage system, and other steel repairs.

The Tobin Bridge was opened to traffic in 1950 as a critical link between Boston and the North Shore. More than 72,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily.