August 2017
Walsh Construction Reconstructs Boston's Commonwealth Avenue Bridge
BOSTON, MA - Walsh Construction recently completed the first major phase of the Commonwealth Avenue (Comm Ave) Bridge Replacement project. Crews replaced the eastbound portion of the existing superstructure that carries Comm Ave and the MBTA Green Line over the Massachusetts Turnpike and the MBTA commuter rail.
During demolition, the construction team blocked a significant portion of the I-90 Massachusetts Turnpike Tollway (Mass Pike) to gain access to the Comm Ave Bridge. Walsh utilized Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques which reduced the impact of construction delays and roadway closures on commuters from four-to-five years to two intensive construction shutdown windows.
Upon completion of demolition and initial installation operations, the construction team was able to quickly dismantle and ship out a large, 440-ton crane, allowing all four lanes in each direction of the I-90 Mass Pike tollway to reopen three weeks ahead of schedule. State Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack credited the early completion to the hard work of the crews and contractors.
Despite some weather delays, crews worked around the clock to prepare the bridge for transit passengers, bus riders and Commonwealth Avenue drivers. The new bridge will include upgraded safety and signals for vehicles, better pedestrian walkways and a dedicated bike layout with signals.
Transportation operations resumed on Commonwealth Avenue at 5:00AM on August 16, bringing an end to the project's 2017 construction shutdown period. Finishing work continues on sidewalks, curb setting, final paving, fencing, and utilities. The second shutdown period will be in July/August 2018 when the westbound portion of the bridge is replaced.
