The contract covers the replacement and rehabilitation of the concrete deck, repair and replacement of the supporting steel and major improvements to drainage and lighting.
The Massachusetts Department of Transport project has a total cost of approximately US$183 million, including aspects such as traffic control and an incentive clause for the contractor to expedite the work. The contractor will be paid an incentive of US$50,000 per day if it completes the work early, up to 180 days. There is a similar penalty clause if the contract runs late.
The 1960s viaduct has experienced significant deterioration and requires frequent emergency repairs, which exacerbates traffic congestion. A long-term solution will be determined through a corridor planning study currently under development but the current contract is intended to guarantee lower maintenance costs and a reduction in the need for emergency repairs for the next 30 years.
Work is anticipated to begin this summer and continue through to late February of 2019. Accelerated bridge construction techniques will be used to reduce the traffic impact and minimise disruptions.
