State to Present Cradock Bridge Reconstruction Design

Designs for reconstruction of the Cradock Bridge in Medford Square to begin in spring 2014 will be presented to the Medford City Council at a meeting next month.

According to a statement from Medford's legislative delegation and Mayor Michael McGlynn released Friday afternoon, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) will present the plans to the council April 2.

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The original bridge was built 1637, rebuilt in 1880 and again in 1909, according to a Medford Historical Society sign on the bridge. The original wooden drawbridge was the first toll bridge in New England.

According to Friday's statement, the project was originally expected to take close to three and a half years to complete. Instead, the project was redesigned to reduce both the timeline and overall traffic disruptions to the area.

Part of the design includes a temporary bridge that will allow for traffic in both directions during construction. 

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

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

Flooding problems that stretch into Winchester, East Arlington and West Medford are expected to be addressed by the project. Concrete panels that impede the flow of water at the bridge will be removed and enlarge the bridge's hydraulic opening.

“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 Medford Rep. Sean Garballey. “This vital project will help to reduce flooding and promote safety in Medford and Arlington.” 

“The Cradock Bridge reconstruction will benefit all surrounding communities,” said Medford Sen. 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.” 

This spring MassDOT will hold a public hearing that "will provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed repair project," according to the statement.

“The renovation of the Cradock Bridge across the Mystic River is vital for our residents and businesses of Medford,” said Medford Rep. 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.”