Cape Cod Bridges Project Update
MassDOT Files State Environmental Review Document for Cape Cod Bridges Project
DEIR Open House Scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, in Bourne
Healey-Driscoll Administration Also Includes Additional Road Safety Improvements, Extension of Local Bicycle-Pedestrian Path
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has filed the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the replacement of the Cape Cod Bridges with the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office. The filing of this comprehensive document represents a significant milestone in advancing the Cape Cod Bridges Project.
The DEIR includes the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s proposed decision to extend construction of Sandwich Road safety improvements—adding a shared-use path to the Gallo Ice Arena—in response to requests from Bourne residents and local officials. The future path will now extend further along Sandwich Road, creating a safe travel option for bicyclists and pedestrians from the Upper Cape Cod Technical High School to the Gallo Ice Arena.
Public Review and Comment
The DEIR will be available for public review in the September 10 edition of the Environmental Monitor. MassDOT has requested an extension of the public comment period from 30 to 44 days to ensure sufficient time for public input.
- Public Comment Period Ends: October 24, 2025
- MEPA Certificate Expected: October 31, 2025
How to Submit Comments:
- Online: MEPA Public Comment Portal
- Email: [email protected]
- Mail:
Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Attn: MEPA Office, Nicholas Moreno
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, MA 02114
Please reference EEA# 16695 in all correspondence.
DEIR Open House
- Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
- Time: 3:00 – 7:00 PM
- Location: Bourne Veteran’s Memorial Community Center
Next Steps in the Environmental Review
While the original plan was to file a joint state and federal environmental document, MassDOT has opted for a phased approach.
- State Review: Filing the DEIR first under MEPA.
- Federal Review: Filing the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) later in 2025.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) anticipates publishing the Notice of Availability of the DEIS in the Federal Register in late summer/early fall 2025, initiating a 45-day public comment period. FHWA and MassDOT will host at least one public meeting on the DEIS, with details provided two weeks in advance.
Key Links & Resources
- Cape Cod Commission – Canal Bridges Hub: www.capecodcommission.org/canal
