Anyone who's driven to Cape Cod has likely crossed the Sagamore Bridge. For decades, it's been the gateway to the Cape, carrying everyone from daily commuters and emergency responders to families headed for a summer weekend on the coast.
Now, Massachusetts officials are giving the public its first detailed look at what will replace it.
The Healey-Driscoll Administration unveiled new design renderings of the future Sagamore Bridge, offering residents, businesses and visitors an early preview of one of the state's largest infrastructure projects.
Built in 1935, the Sagamore Bridge is one of only two highway crossings connecting Cape Cod to mainland Massachusetts. Together with the Bourne Bridge, it carries more than 38 million trips each year, serving local communities, businesses, emergency responders and millions of visitors. After more than 90 years in service, officials say the aging bridges can no longer meet today's traffic and safety needs.
Gov. Maura Healey said the project marks a major step toward replacing bridges that have been discussed for decades.
"For decades, people have talked about replacing the Cape Cod Bridges. Our administration is getting it done," Healey said in a statement. "These new renderings give people a look at the safer, stronger bridge we're building for residents, businesses and everyone who depends on these crossings every day."
The biggest change is the bridge itself. Instead of one structure carrying traffic in both directions, the replacement will use two separate spans, one for each direction of travel. State officials say the design will improve safety, ease congestion and help traffic move more efficiently across the Cape Cod Canal.
The new bridge isn't just for drivers. Plans include a barrier-separated shared-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists, complete with a scenic overlook above the canal. The project also calls for upgraded roadway connections, improved lighting and bridge foundations designed to better accommodate marine traffic traveling through the canal.
Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said the bridges are essential to everyday life on Cape Cod, supporting local businesses, families, first responders and the millions of people who visit the region each year. She said the administration will continue working with local communities throughout construction to help minimize disruptions while delivering infrastructure built to serve future generations.
MassDOT officials said the design will continue to evolve as public feedback is incorporated. During construction, two lanes of traffic in each direction are expected to remain open until the first new bridge span is complete.
State officials say crews will rely on real-time traffic monitoring and coordinate closely with local officials and emergency responders to keep traffic moving. Construction will also be scheduled to avoid the busiest travel periods whenever possible.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2028 after a Notice to Proceed is issued in late 2027. If the current schedule holds, drivers will begin using the new bridge in 2033, while the remaining work is completed. The entire project is expected to wrap up in 2036.
Source: Mass Gov
