Skanska to demolish and rebuild Rourke Bridge in Massachusetts

A design image of what the new Rourke Bridge will look like. (IMAGE: Skanska)

The Rourke Bridge was constructed over the Merrimack River in 1983 as a temporary structure, that was only intended to be in use for around five years. Now, some 40 years later, almost 10 million vehicles cross the bridge every year and it is no longer fit for purpose.

Skanska’s contract to dismantle and replace the structure is valued at US$347 million (approximately SEK 2.8 billion), with the order set to be included in Skanska’s US order bookings for the second quarter of 2025.

The project includes the complete removal of the existing temporary bridge structure and the construction of a new permanent crossing. It also covers roadway reconstruction, highway drainage and storm water management systems, utility relocation, traffic signal upgrades, highway lighting, landscaping, and traffic management.

Skanska said “the project scope includes all related bridge and highway work required to complete the new Rourke Bridge and its supporting infrastructure”.

Demolition and construction works have already begun and the project is expected to be completed by February 2030.