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Accelerated Bridge Program
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about the projectsACCELERATED BRIDGE PROGRAM

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Replacement of the Fore River Bridge is being conducted through the Patrick-Murray Administration's historic Accelerated Bridge Program (ABP). The ABP commits $3 Billion over the next eight years to reduce the number of structurally deficient and functionally obsolete bridges in the Commonwealth and to prevent other bridges from falling into this classification. Replacement of the Fore River Bridge is one of the most significant projects in this program.

The ABP makes use of a range of innovative techniques including:
• Accelerated project scheduling.
• New construction estimating techniques.
• Innovative construction techniques.
• Streamlined environmental permitting.

A Design/Build Project
To speed construction of a replacement for the Fore River Bridge, the new span will be built using a design/build procurement method. Unlike in traditional projects where design firms complete the entire design and the project is advertised and awarded to the low bidder, the design/build entity is chosen based on a best-value basis using a design/build procurement process. The design/build entity will be responsible for progressing a set of 25% plans to final design and constructing the project. This approach allows for  a design/build entity to be out in construction sooner in that portions of the project can be constructed while the final design is completed. In addition, this procurement method allows MassDOT to take advantage of the contractors construction expertise during final design. This tends to result in a shorter construction schedule by using accelerated construction techniques, and therefore, reduces overall project costs.   

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