MassDOT is warning of traffic delays on Interstate 91 as contractors begin to demolish the elevated highway deck in Springfield.
Work to tear down the reinforced concrete bridge deck on the 2.5 mile long I-91 viaduct is scheduled to start on February 10.
MassDOT said the contractor will put noise-reducing curtains in place and take other mitigation steps. The demolition is scheduled to take place during both daytime and nighttime work shifts.
MassDOT secretary Stephanie Pollock told reporters earlier this week there is optimism the big highway reconstruction project will be finished by late 2017.
" My understanding is that project is actually running a bit ahead of schedule." she said.
The contractor on the $185 million project can earn up to a $9 million bonus by finishing the job ahead of schedule.