Welcome

This historic project replaced fourteen bridges in Medford in just ten weekends between June and August, 2011.  All associated work, including barrier installation, final paving, and lane striping, will occur during off-peak and overnight hours, is complete. Since MassDOT used cutting-edge Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques and materials to replace the bridges, in October all the bridge work will have been completed in less than a year. Using conventional methods, it would have taken at least four years to replace all fourteen bridges, and during those four years drivers would have had to endure long-term lane closures. MassDOT executed a traffic management plan and a comprehensive communications plan to minimize construction-related congestion and community impacts during construction, which was limited to off-peak hours. Visit the 93 Map to view an interactive map of the project.

The innovations MassDOT used to accelerate the bridge replacements include: design/build procurement, a prefabricated bridge elements system, and a special rapid-setting concrete.  By replacing the bridges with modular superstructure units that were fabricated off-site, MassDOT eliminated years of work in the roadway.

This project was showcased by the Federal Highway Administrator, Victor Mendez, in July, receiving national attention for the innovation it used to get the bridges built so quickly and safely-- and for limiting major impacts to road users to off-peak hours.

The 93 Fast 14 Bridge Replacement Showcase, hosted by the Federal Highway Administration's  Highways for LIFE program, attracted highway officials from 26 states. These transportation leaders came to learn how to use customer service and safety-driven innovative techniques on their bridge construction projects. As part of the Showcase, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez joined MassDOT Secretary Jeff Mullan and state and local officials to witness the rapid construction firsthand at the Route 60 bridges. 

The project was developed by the Patrick-Murray Administration's Accelerated Bridge Program to result in the fewest construction related impacts on traffic, businesses, residents and tourism. This $98.1 million project  received a $1 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration's Highways for Life program. Over eighty percent of the project cost will be paid for with federal funds. The remaining twenty percent of the project cost (minus the grant money) will be paid for with Accelerated Bridge Program funds.

MassDOT strongly encourages drivers to use alternate routes during construction activities on I-93 and local roads. Please allow extra time, plan for delays, and drive with caution in work zones.

New Hampshire DOT is also working to improve I-93. New Hampshire DOT is in the process of rebuilding a 20-mile segment of I-93 between New Hampshire Exits 1 and 5 from the Massachusetts state line to Manchester, NH.  Learn more about this project by visiting New Hampshire DOT’s Rebuilding I-93 Project website.