Cape Cod Canal Bridge Update Highlights Progress Toward Construction Phase
MassDOT outlines permitting milestones, procurement timeline, and upcoming field work
Today Cape Cod officials hosted a regional update today on the Cape Cod Canal Bridges Program, welcoming representatives from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to share the latest developments on the replacement of the Sagamore Bridge.
The hybrid meeting, held at the Barnstable County Complex and streamed online, was sponsored by the Barnstable County Commissioners, the Cape Cod Commission, and the Cape and Islands Municipal Leaders Association (CIMLA). Municipal leaders, transportation partners, and members of the public participated.
MassDOT’s update was led by Luisa Paiewonsky, Executive Director of Megaprojects Delivery, with Project Manager Anne Canaday also in attendance as part of the project team.
Environmental Review Nearing Completion
MassDOT officials reported that both state and federal environmental review processes are advancing toward completion. The Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act was filed in early March, with certification expected this month.
At the federal level, the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is currently under review, with a Record of Decision anticipated by the end of June and publication in the Federal Register expected in July. Remaining permits are projected to be completed by the end of the summer.
Procurement Process Underway
MassDOT has formally launched the procurement phase for the Sagamore Bridge replacement, marking a significant step toward construction.
The process includes:
- Request for Letters of Interest (deadline: May 27, 2026)
- Request for Qualifications
- Request for Proposals (RFP), expected to take approximately one year
An Industry Day is scheduled for April 17, with strong interest already reported from regional and national firms.
MassDOT indicated that once the RFP phase is approved, approximately $1.2 billion in federal grant funding will be transferred to state accounts to support construction.
Construction Timeline and Traffic Management
MassDOT anticipates issuing a Notice to Proceed for the design-build contract in late fall 2027, with construction expected to begin in winter 2027/2028.
Plans for the new Sagamore Bridge include:
- Construction of two new bridge spans (one in each direction)
- Maintaining two lanes of traffic in each direction throughout construction
- Reconstructing both bridge interchanges
By 2033, traffic is expected to shift onto the newly constructed span before demolition of the existing bridge and completion of the second span.
Ongoing Field Work and Property Acquisition
MassDOT is currently conducting site investigations, including borings, surveys, and foundation testing near the Sagamore Bridge. Residents can expect more visible and audible activity in the coming months, including pile driving work beginning in May.
To support construction, 13 residential properties were identified for acquisition. MassDOT reported that 11 of the 13 homes have already been acquired, with efforts ongoing to assist remaining property owners.
Focus on Risk Management and Cost Control
Officials emphasized that much of the early work—including environmental permitting, right-of-way acquisition, and utility coordination—is being completed in advance to reduce risk during construction.
MassDOT is also closely monitoring national construction cost trends, noting significant increases in materials such as steel. Independent cost reviews and federal oversight processes are being used to manage budget and schedule risks.
Regional Coordination and Public Engagement
MassDOT continues to work closely with regional partners, including the Cape Cod Commission and the Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization. Ongoing outreach efforts include public meetings, coordination with municipal leaders, and engagement with local schools and community groups.
Officials emphasized the importance of transparency and continued communication as the project advances.
Bourne Bridge Status
MassDOT confirmed that a federal funding application for the Bourne Bridge replacement remains under review. In the interim, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to conduct maintenance work to preserve the bridge.
Looking Ahead
With environmental reviews nearing completion and procurement now underway, the Cape Cod Canal Bridges Program is moving into its next phase. Additional updates are expected as permitting concludes and contractor selection progresses.
