BOSTON (AP) The state is launching a $260 million reconstruction of the historic Longfellow Bridge.

Gov. Deval Patrick said the project will restore the 102-year-old span over the Charles River to its “former glory.” Initial work is expected to begin later this year, with full reconstruction starting in the fall of 2011. The work is slated for completion in 2016.

The project is part of a $3 billion effort to repair crumbling and obsolete bridges across the state.

State transportation officials said service on the MBTA Red Line, which also uses the bridge, will be maintained during the reconstruction.

More than $12.5 million has already been spent on temporary repairs since 2007 to the bridge connecting Boston and Cambridge.

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