LYNN — Commercial street will be closed from 8 p.m. on Friday, September 16, through 6 a.m. on Monday, September 19 as the MBTA replaces the Commercial Street Bridge.
The Commercial Street Bridge carries the Newburyport/Rockport Commuter Rail Line over Commercial Street in Lynn between River Works station and Lynn Station. The MBTA’s Capital Delivery Bridge & Structures Team will replace the steel bridge, which was built in 1913, as part of their capital program.
The MBTA’s General Manager Steve Poftak said in a press release that the old bridge is nearing the “end of its useful life,” and that the new bridge, which should be up and running in the fall, should last 75 years. He said that although he understands the commuters’ frustration with the temporary closures, the new bridge will ensure a safer, more reliable service.
“Part of the T’s modernization and safety work to replace six bridges on various Commuter Rail lines, the upcoming work taking place on the Commercial Street Bridge will result in a brand new bridge that provides safer, more reliable service to Newburyport/Rockport Line riders,” Poftak said. “We know the traffic impacts and service diversion resulting from the bridge replacement can be a frustration to drivers, riders, and others, and we appreciate the patience of the community while we work to complete this critical project.”
While the bridge replacement is underway, temporary bus diversions will be implemented for Newburyport/Rockport line riders. In an interview, Sen. Brendan Crighton said that although he empathizes with commuters amid the various MBTA hurdles and shutdowns they’ve seen in recent months, he’s glad that the MBTA is offering riders alternatives.
