In the heart of Haverhill, Massachusetts, progress is underway on a key infrastructure project designed to strengthen regional connectivity and support long‑term transportation needs. The construction of a new bridge foundation is not just a local upgrade; it's a meaningful investment in safety, mobility, and resilience for the surrounding communities. With aging infrastructure across New England under pressure, this effort plays a critical role in enhancing daily commutes and future‑proofing the corridor. 

The story unfolding in Haverhill is one of renewal and resilience. After completing the first phase of I‑495 bridge replacements in 2022, SPS New England returned in 2025 to tackle the next set of aging spans. This second phase includes replacing both the northbound and southbound bridges over the Merrimack River, as well as the Ward Hill Connector bridges over I‑495; structures that carry tens of thousands of vehicles each day and serve as a vital freight route for the region. Construction began in summer 2025, and the site is now alive with demolition, pile driving, and foundation work as crews lay the groundwork for a more reliable and resilient transportation corridor. 

At the forefront of this effort is SPS New England, a trusted name in bridge and highway construction across the region. Known for its expertise in managing complex marine and highway environments, SPS brings decades of experience in design‑build delivery, accelerated bridge construction, and deep foundation work. Their ability to coordinate marine access, traffic management, and structural sequencing makes them uniquely equipped to handle a project of this scale and sensitivity. 

A major component of the work involves building temporary trestles to access the Merrimack River, followed by the installation of steel H‑piles and pipe piles that will support the new spans. Pile driving is a critical step; one that demands precision, power, and adaptability. Steel piles must be driven deep into the riverbed to anchor the new structures, ensuring they can withstand heavy traffic loads, shifting soil conditions, and environmental challenges for decades to come. 

To meet these demands, SPS has deployed a strategic combination of ICE® equipment tailored to the site's variable subsurface conditions. An ICE® 50B Vibratory Hammer is being used to rapidly and accurately set large‑diameter piles in softer soils, where speed and control are essential. When the driving conditions stiffen or deeper penetration is required, the ICE® D50 Diesel Hammer steps in, delivering the high‑impact energy needed to seat piles to their final depth and capacity. This seamless transition between vibratory and impact hammers minimizes downtime, improves installation accuracy, and ensures each pile is placed with confidence. 

Supporting this efficiency is the Hydrauli‑Flex™ hose system, integral to the vibratory setup. Its high‑performance hydraulic flow enables consistent, responsive operation; which is an important advantage when working in a dynamic marine environment where precision matters. 

The work on the Merrimack River is visually striking: cranes perched on temporary trestles, impact hammers driving steel deep into the riverbed, and crews coordinating each step with practiced expertise. But beyond the impressive construction activity, the project represents something larger; a commitment to building infrastructure that is stronger, safer, and more resilient for the future. 

Learn more about the ICE® 50B and ICE® D50

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Media Contact-        
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA        
Vice President  
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc     
The Hose Company    
Office - 704-821-8200        
Email - marketing@iceusa.com / info@hydraulichose.com