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When the roadway-resurfacing project on the Tobin Bridge is completed in a few weeks, motorists and neighboring residents may enjoy a smoother and quieter ride. Roadway improvements on the 54-year old bridge began this week and require periodic lane closures to ensure public safety during the construction phase. The project involves milling, repaving and restriping of the southbound roadways approaching the toll plaza on the upper level in Chelsea.

Two lanes on the upper deck will be opened daily from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. During off-peak travel time, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m., one lane will remain open. Construction work will progress from left to right lane. Motorists are directed to use the Fifth Street on-ramp during right lane construction when the Everett Street on-ramp will be closed.

To minimize noise construction impacts on neighboring residents, the Massachusetts Port Authority, owner and operator of the Tobin Memorial Bridge, has prohibited milling work in areas near neighborhoods after 7:00 p.m.

The resurfacing project, to be completed by Boston Building and Bridge, with contractor J. P. Keating, will include the use of Rosphalt-rubberized asphalt for waterproofing. Because this material is temperature sensitive, all work is weather permitting.

With more than 65,000 motorists crossing it per day, the Tobin Bridge is under continual maintenance. Roadway construction, overall repairs and bridge repainting are some of the Tobin's ongoing maintenance items. The Tobin Bridge spans 2 and 1/4 miles, and sits 135 feet above sea level. It is vulnerable to ocean salt, a known corrosive as well as to the damaging elements of harsh New England weather.

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