Cape Cod Bridges Program receives significant federal funding

Nearly $400 million in federal funding is on the way to support replacing the aging Bourne and Sagamore bridges.

Announced on Friday, December 15, the $372 million award represents the full amount the Healey-Driscoll administration applied for in August 2023 from the Federal Multi-modal Project Discretionary Grant program, which includes the Nationally Significant Multi-modal Freight & Highway Projects (INFRA) program and the National Infrastructure Project Assistance (MEGA) program.

This award represents a significant step towards securing the federal funding needed to address the aging Bourne and Sagamore Bridges.

“Replacement of the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges is a once-in-a-century investment in the Cape Cod region,” said Kristy Senatori, Cape Cod Commission Executive Director. “We commend President Biden and our federal delegation, Senators Markey and Warren and Congressman Keating for consistent efforts to bring attention and resources to one of the region’s greatest infrastructure needs, essential for the long-term viability of our economy and vitality of our communities.”

Additionally, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have filed a joint application seeking $1.06 billion in grant funding through the federal Bridge Investment Program (BIP) Large Bridge Project Program for the replacement of the Sagamore Bridge.

If the application is approved, the $1.06 billion grant will help advance a phased replacement strategy for the Cape Cod bridges, beginning with $2.1 billion for the Sagamore Bridge. MassDOT will administer the design, permitting, and construction of the proposed improvements and, once construction is complete, will own, operate, and maintain the new Sagamore Bridge.

“Replacement of the Sagamore and Bourne Bridges, with improved multi-modal connectivity to the surrounding communities, is critical for the Cape Cod region and its people,” said Cape Cod Commission Deputy Director Steven Tupper. “It is the only viable solution to address existing public safety issues while ensuring economic progress for the Cape and Islands.”

The Sagamore Bridge project is Phase 1 of the Cape Cod Bridges Program, addressing the aging Sagamore and Bourne bridges and the surrounding roadway networks. The existing bridges are federally owned assets, operated by the USACE, and provide the only means of vehicular access across the Cape Cod Canal.

The BIP program provides Massachusetts with an opportunity to access the federal funding that is needed to replace this federal asset. This funding will allow Massachusetts to deliver on the vision of this project and its significant benefits to Cape Cod, the Islands, and the state.

More information can be found by visiting www.capecodcommission.org/canal.