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Trucks Now Banned From Longfellow Bridge

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Jun 27, 2008 6:34 pm US/Eastern

Trucks Now Banned From Longfellow Bridge

One Traffic Lane In Each Direction Closed To All Traffic

BOSTON (WBZ) ―

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Safety concerns have led to more tough restrictions for traffic on the Longfellow Bridge. Beginning Saturday, all large trucks will be banned entirely from the span. One lane in each direction is also being shut down to all traffic, to control the weight on the bridge.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation said they are making the changes after consulting with the Federal Highway Administration.

Given the new restrictions, DCR Commissioner Richard K. Sullivan Jr. said that more repair crews are being added on the Longfellow, to complete the repairs as soon as possible. The goal is to have construction complete by the fall.

Trucks weighing over 20 tons will no longer be allowed on the bridge. The inside lane in both directions is being shut down to all traffic.

Previously, heavy trucks were allowed only on the outside lanes. "Given the difficulty of enforcing the one-lane truck ban, DCR agrees with the Federal Highway Administration officials that it's best to keep large trucks off the Longfellow Bridge entirely until repairs are complete," Sullivan said.

Repairs to the 100 year old bridge began last August and have cost more than $5 million so far. More than 200 jack beams have been replaced, and more than 180 railing brackets have been repaired.

Earlier this month, the DCR announced that spectators will not be allowed to stand on the Longfellow Bridge during this year's 4th of July fireworks. The bridge has long been a favorite viewing spot.