The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has released a construction timeline for the Sagamore Bridge — which is one of the main access points to Cape Cod.
The aging bridge — and its counterpart, the Bourne Bridge — are both scheduled for full replacement, with MassDOT anticipating the demolition of the Sagamore Bridge to launch in the winter of 2033, according to a project document from the agency.
Cape Cod Bridges project
Nearing 90 years old, the Bourne Bridge and the Sagamore Bridge provide the only access by vehicle to Cape Cod and are both “functionally obsolete, require frequent maintenance and no longer meet the needs of the traveling public,” MassDOT’s website states, deeming their full replacement necessary.
The dual bridges will be replaced with a twin-bridge structure with opposing traffic contained to its own bridge, according to the project website. This design approach will allow construction to proceed in phases while maintaining traffic flow to and from Cape Cod.
Both bridges are expected to have 100-year life spans and are designed with a focus on minimizing costs and reducing maintenance, the website states.
According to the project website, the bridges’ approach spans will be constructed in place, while the arch spans will be built off-site and then “floated in and lifted into place.”
In addition to the bridge reconstruction, MassDOT will complete multimodal improvements to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians crossing the canal, as well as install scenic overlooks and a new loop trail between the two bridges. A shared-use path will be separated by a barrier and include connections to the Cape Cod Canal service roads, the project website states.
Sagamore Bridge construction timeline
MassDOT projects that environmental permits will be completed by this summer and a draft request for proposals will be issued in the fall. Property acquisitions are slated to be completed by Fall 2027, with a construction notice to proceed expected in winter 2027.
According to MassLive, dozens of properties are being acquired for the dual bridge projects.
Construction is expected to launch in Fall 2031 with the placement of the southbound bridge. All traffic will be rerouted to the new southbound bridge by fall 2033. The demolition of the existing structure is slated for winter 2033/34. The northbound bridge placement is scheduled for spring 2036, with traffic fully reconfigured to use both spans by winter 2036/37. The anticipated completion date is spring 2037.
MassLive reported that the construction timeline is approximate.
The replacement of both bridges is expected to cost $4.5 billion, with $2.13 billion for the Sagamore Bridge and the other $2.37 billion for the full replacement of the Bourne Bridge, according to MassLive. The state has allocated $700 million for the project and secured $1.72 billion in federal funding for the Sagamore Bridge, while funding for the Bourne Bridge is still being finalized.
According to MassLive, both bridges are currently owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, though the state will assume ownership once construction is complete.
Sources: MassDOT, Cape Cod Bridges project document, MassLive
