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Here's what will replace a 117-year-old Boston bridge

North Washington Street Bridge between North End and Charlestown set to be replaced

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Here's what will replace a 117-year-old Boston bridge

North Washington Street Bridge between North End and Charlestown set to be replaced

The North Washington Street Bridge is a historic bridge that was constructed prior to the 1900s.

After 117 years in service, the bridge is beginning to fail. MassDOT said the bridge is structurally deficient and heavy trucks and vehicles are restricted. There have been extensive emergency repairs done to the bridge in the past few years.

Construction on a new bridge is expected to begin soon and will last four years. MassDOT secured millions of dollars in federal funding to replace the aging structure.

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MassDOT

The North Washington Street Bridge, also known as the Charlestown Bridge, is an essential connection between Charlestown and the North End.

MassDOT

The bridge is owned by the city of Boston, which currently spends between $3 and $5 million a year to maintain the functionality of the deteriorating structure.

MassDOT

MassDOT said the proposed design will provide improved vehicle, pedestrian, cycling, transit, and boat navigation facilities, while visually complementing the iconic Zakim Bridge.

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MassDOT

MassDOT said the proposed bridge will expand the currently narrow sidewalks to provide a safer environment for pedestrians, including architectural design elements, plantings, information plaques, lighting and improved treatments for the Freedom Trail.

MassDOT

Separated cycle tracks on either side will create a safer connection across the Charles River for cyclists.

MassDOT

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MassDOT

Two vehicle lanes will be provided in either direction, in addition to a bus only lane in the southbound direction.

MassDOT

The proposed design will also create a more open channel for boats, while maintaining flood control measures associated with the Charles River locks.

MassDOT

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MassDOT

MassDOT

MassDOT

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MassDOT

MassDOT

MassDOT previously said construction of the project is anticipated to begin either in late 2017 or early 2018 and continue to 2020, using accelerated construction techniques.