Alford Street Bridge linking Charlestown and Everett closed for hours after mechanical malfunction disrupts Mystic River traffic

Key crossing over the Mystic River shuts down amid repairs

The Alford Street Bridge, a major roadway connection between Boston’s Charlestown neighborhood and Everett, was closed Tuesday, January 27, 2026, after a mechanical issue was identified. Transportation officials said the shutdown was expected to last for several hours while crews addressed the malfunction.

The bridge spans the Mystic River and serves as a frequent commuter route for drivers traveling between Sullivan Square, Everett, and nearby regional connections. With the bridge out of service, traffic was redirected to surrounding streets, concentrating congestion at key nodes on both sides of the river.

Detours and traffic pressure points

During the closure, vehicles were routed away from the bridge and toward alternative corridors around Sullivan Square in Boston and the Route 16/Route 99 area in Everett. The detour pattern signaled that impacts were likely to be felt not only on Alford Street itself, but also on connecting approaches where traffic volumes can quickly back up during peak travel periods.

Transportation and public safety guidance to motorists emphasized finding alternate routes, anticipating delays, lowering speeds, and using added caution while moving through detour zones.

• Primary impact area in Boston: approaches and circulation around Sullivan Square
• Primary impact area in Everett: the Route 16 and Route 99 intersection area
• Expected effects: slower travel times, heavier volumes on parallel crossings and connectors

Why mechanical problems can trigger full closures

Officials did not immediately detail the specific component that failed. Mechanical issues on bridges can require immediate closures because they may affect safe operation of the deck, movable elements, or associated control systems. When a failure creates uncertainty about safe loading, alignment, or reliable operation, agencies typically restrict access until inspection and repairs confirm the bridge can reopen safely.

Officials described the issue as mechanical and anticipated the closure would last several hours while work proceeded.

Ongoing reliability concerns on Mystic River infrastructure

The Alford Street Bridge is one of several key Mystic River crossings that funnel daily traffic between Boston and surrounding communities. Recent planning and construction activity in the broader Sullivan Square area has also focused on improving the reliability and safety of adjacent corridors through phased bridge and roadway work, reflecting the high stakes of keeping these links operational.

Tuesday’s shutdown underscored how quickly an unexpected bridge malfunction can disrupt travel patterns across multiple neighborhoods, especially where limited parallel routes must absorb diverted traffic on short notice.

What to watch for next

Transportation officials indicated the closure status could change as repair work progresses. Motorists in the area should expect shifting traffic conditions until the bridge is fully returned to service and detour routing is lifted.