Press Release: 4/8/2026
MassDOT Celebrates Groundbreaking on Basiliere Bridge Replacement in Haverhill
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
4/07/2026
MEDIA CONTACT
Jacquelyn Goddard, Director of Communications, MassDOT
Phone
Call Jacquelyn Goddard, Director of Communications, MassDOT at (857) 368-8500
Online
Email Jacquelyn Goddard, Director of Communications, MassDOT at jacquelyn.goddard@dot.state.ma.us
HAVERHILL — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is celebrating the groundbreaking of the Basiliere bridge replacement project in Haverhill. The project consists of a full replacement of the existing Private First Class Ralph T. Basiliere Bridge carrying Route 125 over the Merrimack River and Bradford Rail Trail, which will provide two lanes of traffic in each direction and two shared-use paths. The new bridge will provide safety, mobility, and operational improvements to drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Construction will continue in phases through 2032.
“Thanks to $190 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Haverhill is finally replacing the Basiliere Bridge – a century-old structure that tens of thousands of drivers, school buses, and emergency responders depend on every single day,” said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. “This is exactly the kind of long-overdue investment that law was designed to deliver. Haverhill residents have waited long enough for action to replace this bridge, and today that wait is finally over.”
“The Healey-Driscoll Administration continues to invest in the communities we serve by ensuring safe, reliable and improved transportation. I’m privileged to be part of this Administration and MassDOT as we embark on replacing the Basiliere Bridge, with a new bridge that will continue to proudly honor Haverhill resident Private First Class Ralph T. Basiliere who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “This critical investment will allow us to maintain vehicular, marine and pedestrian traffic as we build the new bridge enhancing the overall travel experience for residents, businesses and visitors. The Basiliere Bridge project underscores our dedication to delivering a safer more connected, balanced transportation network that keeps people moving across the Commonwealth.”
“MassDOT is pleased to announce that construction has commenced on the Basiliere Bridge replacement project, which will provide the City of Haverhill with a modern, safe, and reliable structure for generations to come.” said Undersecretary of Transportation and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. “We appreciate the support of the Healey-Driscoll Administration and our federal delegation for their advocacy, and I'd like to congratulate our design-build team and MassDOT staff for reaching this critical project milestone.”
The project includes the replacement of the existing bridge, along with work at the Main/Water/Merrimack Street and South Main/Middlesex Street intersections, and work on Main Street, Merrimack Street, and Ginty Boulevard. The new bridge will also incorporate design elements of the existing bridge, such as an arched appearance, under-bridge lighting, and vertical beacons.
During construction, a single northbound (towards Haverhill) and a single southbound (towards Bradford) lane will generally be maintained on the Basiliere Bridge as well as one sidewalk. Construction will proceed in phases and is expected to continue for approximately 6.5 years, with a project cost of approximately $240 million.
Statements of Support:
"This bridge is more than a piece of infrastructure; it’s a staple of our community and a critical investment in Haverhill’s continued economic growth. The Basiliere bridge is a part of our history, culture, and economic strength. Residents have wanted this project for a long time, and I’m thrilled it’s moving forward. This project ensures that a structure our community relies on every day continues to serve us long into the future, supports further growth, and unlocks greater opportunities.”, said State Representative Andy X. Vargas.
“Replacing the Basiliere Bridge means safer travel, stronger connections, and real reliability for the people of Haverhill and the Merrimack Valley,” said State Senator Pavel Payano. “This is a corridor that residents depend on every day to get to work, school, and local businesses. Investing in this project is an investment in how our communities stay connected and continue to grow. I am grateful to MassDOT and our partners at every level for moving this forward, and I look forward to seeing the impact it will have for years to come.”
“The replacement of the PFC Ralph T. Basiliere Bridge represents a transformational investment in the Merrimack Valley. One long overdue. This century old structure has served Haverhill with distinction, but our residents, commuters, and businesses deserve infrastructure built for the next hundred years. The new design honors Haverhill’s character while delivering modern safety standards, improved pedestrian access, and dedicated bicycle infrastructure that strengthens connections across our communities. I am pleased that MassDOT has committed to minimizing traffic disruption throughout construction and to serving as a responsible partner to downtown Haverhill at every stage of this project,” said State Representative Ryan Hamilton.