The North Station Draw One Bridge crosses the Charles River to connect Boston’s North Station with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) commuter rail network. The MBTA has selected STV to provide full engineering design services for a transformative replacement of the bridge’s aging spans with a new six‑track movable crossing. STV’s scope includes design of the movable spans, a replacement signal tower, a new pedestrian walkway, associated track and signal upgrades and the addition of two new platform tracks at North Station.
What challenges is STV addressing?
The existing bridge is a critical bottleneck for commuter rail operations, limiting platform availability and overall system flexibility. The MBTA needs a replacement structure that improves train flow while maintaining navigation clearances for vessels on the Charles River. Additionally, the project must demonstrate federal funding value, coordinate with multiple stakeholders and advance within Boston’s constrained rail and urban environment.
What solutions is STV delivering?
To support project delivery, STV prepared the comprehensive benefit‑cost analysis that enabled the MBTA to secure a $472 million MPDG Mega Grant – the largest federal grant award in the agency’s history. STV also developed targeted informational materials for elected officials and regional stakeholders to raise awareness and underscore the project’s urgency. On the technical side, STV is designing the new movable bridge spans, transit infrastructure upgrades, the pedestrian walkway and the expanded platform capacity that will enable smoother rail operations.
How will this project benefit the region?
Once complete, the new Draw One Bridge will enhance commuter rail throughput, increase the number of platforms available for passenger service, reduce rail congestion and maintain existing river navigation clearances. The project will improve reliability, expand operational flexibility and support long‑term growth in Greater Boston’s rail network.
Key Stats and Accolades
- 6‑track movable bridge replacement
- 2 additional platform tracks at North Station
- $472M MPDG Mega Grant – largest in MBTA history
- New signal tower, pedestrian walkway, and full track/signal upgrades
