Local Officials to Present New Design for Cradock Bridge

The Medford legislative delegation and Mayor Michael McGlynn are pleased to announce a new potential design by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for the reconstruction of the historic Cradock Bridge in Medford Square. MassDOT will present the new design at the Medford City Council meeting on Tuesday, April 2nd at 6:00 p.m.

“I am very pleased that this project is moving forward to address safety concerns, flooding issues and pedestrian safety,” said Mayor McGlynn.

The reconstruction of the Cradock Bridge, originally slated to take close to three and a half years, has been redesigned to not only reduce the timespan but to also reduce disruptions in the traffic pattern throughout the project. Considering the impact of this important link to and from downtown Medford, the new approach to repair the bridge with decreased construction impacts and a shorter timeframe was essential.

“The people of Medford have waited a long time for the Cradock Bridge reconstruction,” said Representative Paul Donato. “We are very grateful to MassDOT for their efforts surrounding the project.”

According to details provided by the project design team, a temporary bridge will be put in place to allow for traffic to flow regularly in both directions. This will allow MassDOT to more efficiently perform the construction and maintain traffic.

“This is an important step forward and I would like to thank the Department of Transportation for working with the delegation to address the community’s concerns,” said Representative Sean Garballey. “This vital project will help to reduce flooding and promote safety in Medford and Arlington.”

The project will alleviate flooding issues for parts of West Medford, Winchester and East Arlington. The reconstruction includes the removal of concrete panels that now impede the flow of water, which will enlarge the hydraulic opening and reduce flooding upstream of the bridge.

“The Cradock Bridge reconstruction will benefit all surrounding communities,” said Senator Pat Jehlen. “It will relieve flooding, which has been an issue for so many, and improve safety all with limited impact on the community throughout the project.”

A 25% Design Public Hearing will be held by MassDOT in Spring 2013 to discuss the proposed reconstruction design. The hearing will provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed repair project. The project is scheduled to begin in Spring 2014.

“The renovation of the Cradock Bridge across the Mystic River is vital for our residents and businesses of Medford,” said Representative Carl Sciortino. “This is an important investment in local infrastructure, and I appreciate MassDOT’s efforts to work with the city to minimize the impact on traffic and pedestrians.”

– Information from State Rep. Paul Donato and State Sen. Pat Jehlen