Tobin Bridge Traffic Advisory: Everett Avenue On Ramp Closed for Resurfacing; Traffic Detoured to Carter Street On Ramp.

Roadway improvements on the 54-year old bridge began two weeks ago and require periodic lane closures to ensure public safety during the construction phase. Construction on this project progresses from left to right lane, allowing two lanes on the upper deck to be opened daily from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., and one lane to be open during off-peak travel time, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m.

The roadway resurfacing project involves milling, repaving and restriping of the southbound roadways approaching the toll plaza on the upper level in Chelsea. When complete, the roadways will provide a smoother and quieter ride for motorists and neighboring residents. 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 < 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.

More in this Section