Commonwealth Avenue Over Massachusetts Turnpike and Commuter Rail

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) faced a five-year endeavor to replace the deck on the bridge carrying Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Green line over I-90 and multiple railroads. The prolonged construction schedule stemmed from the complex nature of both the bridge and its surroundings. Recognizing the need for an innovative approach, MassDOT enlisted CHA to develop a plan to replace the superstructure using Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) technologies.

Drawing upon our extensive national experience, CHA formulated a strategy to execute the superstructure replacement within two brief closure durations spread over two years. Our plan initiated the replacement of the two piers ahead of the superstructure work to expedite construction. The shoring plan allowed the bridge to remain in service while replacing the piers beneath it.

As the owner’s representative, CHA then managed the design-build project to replace the initial segment of the superstructure in 19 days. Subsequently, we managed the intricate task of transferring numerous utilities to the new segment of the superstructure over the course of 12 months. Finally, the remaining portion of the bridge was swiftly replaced within a mere 14 days. This monumental undertaking is arguably the most intricate ABC project ever in the United States.