Central Bridge in Lawrence closed after fire raises structural safety concerns

A heavily traveled bridge in Lawrence, Massachusetts, has been closed after officials raised concerns about possible structural damage, police said Tuesday. The Central Bridge, which carries both cars and pedestrians across the Merrimack River, was shut down early Tuesday morning. Snow removal crews reportedly spotted flames coming from the lower portion of the bridge, prompting an emergency response.

Firefighters from the Lawrence Fire Department were able to extinguish the blaze, but authorities are worried the fire may have compromised the bridge’s structure. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has been brought in to conduct a thorough inspection and assess the extent of any damage.

City Council President Jeovanny Rodriguez said it’s still unclear when the bridge will reopen. In an afternoon update, city officials asked residents to remain patient, advising drivers to seek alternate routes and prepare for traffic delays.

The bridge links Amesbury Street in downtown Lawrence to Parker Street in South Lawrence and is one of the city’s three primary crossings. Rodriguez acknowledged that the situation was unexpected, noting that no one anticipates a fire of this nature on such a critical roadway. He added that city leaders are working closely with state officials to address the problem as quickly as possible.