Gloucester Drawbridge Replacement
- Contract awarded: November, 20, 2017
- Projected completion: 2022
- Budget: $100 million
- Status: Construction in progress
The Gloucester Drawbridge, which carries the Rockport Line over the Annisquam River, is being replaced. The current bridge was built in 1911, reconstructed in 1932, and updated in 1984. The MBTA suspended service across the bridge in April 2020 due to unforeseen site conditions. Replacement bus shuttles currently serve the last two stations on the line.
The unexpected closure offered several benefits, including:
- Accelerated construction schedule
- Reduced project costs
- Reduced impacts on neighbors and customers
- Enhanced safety and reliability
What To Expect During This Work
Service Impacts
Due to supply chain delays and bridge construction complexities, Commuter Rail service to Rockport will not be restored in September 2021. In the meantime, we're accelerating other projects on the Rockport Line and evaluating ways to restore full service. Check back soon for additional details.
Shuttle buses continue to serve Gloucester and Rockport stations.
Neighborhood Impacts
To minimize disruptions for residents, the MBTA is having trains idle in more remote areas of the line whenever possible.
In addition to the Gloucester Drawbridge project, the MBTA will be installing Positive Train Control (PTC) and performing routine maintenance simultaneously to minimize the construction impact.
Building a Better T
As part of our $8 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.
Photo Gallery
The existing Gloucester Drawbridge has been closed for repairs since April 2020. The drawbridge, control tower, and trestles will be fully replaced in 2022. (May 2019)
During phase one of the Gloucester Drawbridge Replacement, crew members assembled a temporary construction platform in order to work safely and efficiently. (May 2019)
The existing timber trestle is being replaced as part of the Gloucester Drawbridge Replacement Project. (May 2019)
A crane is used to place steel beams that will help reinforce the trestle section of the bridge during construction. (May 2019)
Reinforced beams are placed by crane to help keep the trestle system stable during construction. (May 2019)
Past Events
Recent Updates
Contact Information
To reach the project team for questions or concerns related to the Gloucester Drawbridge Replacement, please email us at GloucesterDraw@MBTA.com.
Get Involved
Sign-up to receive email advisories and meeting notices.
Building a Better T
As part of our $8 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.
Recent Updates
Get Involved
Sign-up to receive email advisories and meeting notices.