Photo: MBTA
GLOUCESTER, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Work on the Gloucester drawbridge replacement project is another step closer to completion.
The MBTA shared a video of work crews installing the northern bascule span of the bridge Wednesday, fitting it in next to the southern span. The drawbridge has been closed since April 2020 because of "unforeseen site conditions."
The drawbridge helps the Rockport Commuter Rail line cross the Anisquam river in Gloucester and was originally built in 1911. The bridge was later reconstructed in 1932 and once again updated in 1984 before having service suspended in 2020.
Work on the bridge was set to end in September 2021 but had to be pushed back due to supply chain issues and complications during construction. The Commuter Rail has been running shuttle buses from the West Gloucester station to the other two remaining stops on the Rockport Line in downtown Gloucester and Rockport.
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When work is completed, the drawbridge will be completely brand new and feature new reinforced trestles and a new relocated control tower. The new bridge will allow for a speed restriction to be removed and allow for better waterway access for boats.
The drawbridge is now set to open on May 23.
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