Message from MassDOT – Gillis Memorial Draw Bridge Closure
Mariners are advised that The Gillis Memorial Drawbridge over the Merrimack River Rte. 1 between Newburyport and Salisbury will be unable to open for vessel traffic from Tuesday June 21st, 2022 through Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day to complete structural repairs to the bascule span. The bridge will open from 7 p.m. on June 21, 2022 to 7 a.m. on June 22, 2022 on its regular summer schedule. During the 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. work period, on scene equipment will consist of two 30’x 60’ barges with man lifts moored on one side of the channel leaving one side available to vessel traffic able to transit without a bridge opening. All equipment will be moved outside of the navigable channel outside of scheduled work hours. Questions may be directed to Chris Leahy or Eli Demissie Mass DOT Highway Division at (617)892-3643 or (781)570-6051. On scene patrol vessel may be contacted via VHF-FM CH 16/13. Mariners are urged to transit with caution operating at headway speed no wake.
The City of Newburyport Department of Public Services (DPS) paving contractor, D&R General Contracting, Inc. will continue working on Ferry Road from High Street to Plant Street, Tuesday, June 21, 2022. Ferry Road will be closed and traffic will be detoured so please stay cautious and adhere to the road closed signs. D&R General Contracting, Inc. will return in the coming weeks to repave the roadway, weather permitting.
Vehicle access to homes or driveways on Ferry Road may be interrupted at times but we will work with the contractor to minimize the impact. The work will be between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. “No Parking” signs will be posted to the affected areas prior to and during the work. Any vehicle parked on the roadway will be towed at the owner’s expense.
As always, we appreciate your patience and cooperation as we undertake this project and work to improve the condition and character of the streets in your neighborhood. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact DPS Highway Division at 978-465-4464 ext. 1701.
