Dorchester Avenue Bridge Replacement

We will begin construction in summer 2022 to prepare for the full replacement of the Dorchester Avenue Bridge in summer 2023. The steel bridge, which is located between Von Hillern and Kemp Streets, carries vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists over the Red Line, the Commuter Rail Old Colony Lines, and the Cabot Yard maintenance tracks.
Originally built in 1925 and last rehabilitated in 1975, the bridge will be replaced to protect its structural integrity and ensure reliable service.
- Contract awarded: Fall 2021
- Construction schedule:
- Part 1 – Summer 2022 – Full Bridge Closure
- Part 2 – Summer 2023 – Full Bridge Closure
- Project completion: Summer 2023
- Budget: Estimated $34.5 million
- Status: Preconstruction
Building a Better T
As part of our $9.6 billion, 5-year capital investment plan, we're renovating stations, modernizing fare collection systems, upgrading services for our buses, subways, and ferries, and improving the accessibility of the entire system.
- Replacement of the bridge and the Red Line tunnel roof
- Preservation of the adjacent Von Hillern Street wall
- Safer, more resilient, more reliable service on the Red Line
- Reduced future maintenance costs and service impacts
What to Expect During Construction
Service impacts
Scheduled work will impact Red Line and Commuter Rail service on select weekends.
Neighborhood impacts
The bridge will be completely closed to traffic during the summer 2022 work. It will be closed again during the bridge work planned for summer 2023.
During both seasonal work closures, we will set up vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle detours. These will be in place throughout each construction season. We will post detour notices in advance of each closure, and will post signs along the detour route.
Neighbors can expect increased construction noise from heavy equipment and machinery. We appreciate your patience and consideration while we work to complete this critical safety project.


Recent Updates
Contact Information
If you have any questions or would like to sign up for project updates, please contact DotAveBridge@mbta.com.
Past Events
Building a Better T
As part of our $9.6 billion, 5-year capital investment plan, we're renovating stations, modernizing fare collection systems, upgrading services for our buses, subways, and ferries, and improving the accessibility of the entire system.