Lechmere Viaduct Rehabilitation
The Lechmere Viaduct carries Green Line trains from Lechmere across the Charles River into downtown Boston. Streetcars first crossed the bridge in June 1912.
As of May 2020, the bridge will be closed for a period of 11 months to support work on the adjacent Green Line Extension project. During this time, we will rehabilitate and replace track on the historic, concrete arched structure.
- Contract awarded: December 2019
- Projected completion: July 2021
- Budget: $61.8 million (construction only)
- Status: 61% construction complete
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.
Why We're Doing This Work
These upgrades will allow more trains to pass over the bridge, ultimately serving a completely new Lechmere Station and the new stations constructed as part of the Green Line Extension.
We will strengthen the structure of the 110-year-old viaduct to handle heavier loads and increased train frequency while also preserving its historic facade. Work includes the complete reconstruction of track, signals, and traction power on the viaduct.
- Extended service life and reduced maintenance costs without impacts to the historic structure
- Increased capacity and improved frequency to accommodate future Green Line vehicles
What You Can Expect During This Work
Starting in May 2020 and into 2021, shuttles will replace trains on the Green Line between Lechmere and North Station. Lechmere and Science Park stations will be closed.
Starting on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, and through July 2021, the Education First Tennis Courts at 2 Education Circle will be closed to the public.
Service Alerts
Photo Gallery
Contact Information
For inquiries and comments related to the Lechmere Viaduct, email the Green Line Transformation team at GLT@mbta.com.
Related Projects

Green Line Transformation
We're investing in multiple projects to increase the capacity of the Green Line and make it safer and more accessible.

Green Line Extension
We're extending the Northern end of the Green Line and adding 6 new accessible stations.
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.
Related Projects

Green Line Transformation
We're investing in multiple projects to increase the capacity of the Green Line and make it safer and more accessible.

Green Line Extension
We're extending the Northern end of the Green Line and adding 6 new accessible stations.