Skanska awarded $1.06 billion MBTA contract for Boston rail bridge replacement

Skanska has been awarded a $1.06 billion design-build contract by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to replace the North Station Draw One Bridge in Boston. The project includes track and signal upgrades, a new control facility, and expansion from four to six tracks, with completion expected in Fall 2032.

Skanska has been awarded a contract by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to deliver the $1.06 billion North Station Draw One Bridge Replacement and Associated Track & Signal Upgrades project across Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville, according to an official announcement. VHB is the design partner for the design-build contract. The project will modernise a critical rail corridor serving more than 11 million riders annually, strengthening connectivity across the Greater Boston region.

Skanska is a global construction and development firm. VHB is an engineering, planning, and design company headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts. The scope includes replacing the existing 1930-era Draw One bascule bridges with new vertical lift spans, upgrading approach trestles, constructing a new Tower A control facility, adding a new Platform F at North Station, and implementing comprehensive track, signal, and Positive Train Control upgrades. The corridor will expand from four to six tracks across the Charles River, reducing congestion and improving reliability.

This development matters for Boston's transit infrastructure, where the MBTA Commuter Rail system requires significant investment to modernise aging assets. The project will deliver lasting benefits to one of the region's busiest transportation corridors while maintaining continuous commuter rail and Amtrak service throughout construction.

For the construction and engineering industry, the project represents a transformative infrastructure investment that will enhance reliability and support the region's growing transit needs. Innovative design and construction solutions will reduce in-water work, simplify construction staging, and enhance safety. Work is scheduled to commence this month, with expected completion in Fall 2032.