Advancing the Cape Cod Bridges Program

The Cape Cod Canal Bridges Program is advancing.    

On March 26, 2026, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) issued a Request for Letters of Interest from qualified design and construction firms for the replacement of the Sagamore Bridge, marking the start of the project’s procurement process.  

After reviewing submissions, MassDOT will move into the next procurement steps—issuing a Request for Qualifications and later a Request for Proposals—to select a design-build team. The launch of this process is a key milestone toward replacing the Sagamore Bridge and enhancing safe, reliable travel between Cape Cod and mainland Massachusetts. MassDOT will continue to provide public updates as the project advances. 

MassDOT continues to refine preferred bridge and roadway options, advance design, and continue the environmental review process. The Sagamore Bridge project is fully funded, while a $1.183 billion federal funding application for the Bourne Bridge is under review. Ongoing field work, such as environmental surveys, geotechnical borings, and foundation load testing, continues to inform the final design and reduce construction risks.  

Permitting is moving forward for the project. The state filed its final Environmental Impact Report under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act in March, initiating a public comment period that runs through April 10, 2026. In parallel, MassDOT is coordinating with the Federal Highway Administration on the federal Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision. State and federal permits are expected by September 2026, which would position the project to move toward construction.    

Technical field work is underway near the Sagamore Bridge to support design. Crews are conducting geotechnical investigations, including soil sampling and upcoming test pile and drilled shaft installations at several locations this year. These efforts will provide critical information on subsurface conditions and foundation performance as the project prepares for later design and construction. If permitting and procurement stay on schedule, MassDOT expects to issue a notice to proceed for construction in the winter of 2027–2028. 

As the process advances, the Cape Cod Commission continues to represent regional issues and support the planning process. The Commission provides technical data and planning expertise and works with local, state, and federal partners to ensure regional transportation needs are considered.  Through its staffing of the Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Commission helps guide planning and funding decisions. It also collaborates with municipalities and stakeholders to share updates and advocate for replacing the canal bridges, supporting the region’s economy, safety, and long-term mobility. 

For more information, visit www.capecodcommission.org/canal.