Cape Cod Bridges Program Update 

The Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) welcomed Luisa Paiewonsky, Executive Director of the Megaprojects Delivery Office of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), to its May 19, 2025 meeting for an update on the progress of the Cape Cod Bridges Program. 

During her presentation, Paiewonsky reaffirmed the Commonwealth's commitment to replacing the aging Sagamore and Bourne bridges with modern, resilient infrastructure that reflects community input and federal environmental standards. 

Public Engagement and Outreach 

Paiewonski reported that MassDOT has engaged extensively with local stakeholders across Cape Cod. Outreach includes town officials, legislative leaders, schools, and civic groups. The Cape Cod Bridges Advisory Group has resumed regular meetings, and local leaders including Representative Fernandes and Senator Julian Cyr remain closely involved. 

Environmental Review Underway 

The environmental permitting process is underway, with collaboration across federal and state agencies. MassDOT is working closely with the Army Corps of Engineers, Federal Highway Administration, Cape Cod Commission, Town of Bourne and others. Filing of the required environmental documents is expected in late July 2025, a major milestone that will unlock federal funding and begin the procurement process. 

Design Informed by Public Feedback 

Key improvements planned for the new bridges include: 

• Wider lanes and shoulders: Modern 12-foot travel lanes with expanded shoulders to enhance traffic safety and facilitate maintenance operations.  

• Shared-use paths: Safer and wider pedestrian and bicycle facilities, separated from vehicular traffic. 

• Modern interchanges: Redesigned approaches that meet current traffic standards and improve safety. 

• Historic sensitivity: The selected twin-network tied arch design echoes the iconic silhouette of the 1935-era bridges, maintaining visual continuity. 

Minimizing Property Impacts 

MassDOT has taken care to limit property takings but acknowledged that twelve residential and three commercial properties in the Sagamore area will be acquired. These acquisitions are essential for bridge construction, shared-use paths, drainage, and maintenance access. Impacted residents have been notified early to provide ample time for relocation within a tight housing market. MassDOT emphasized its commitment to fairness, transparency, and full compliance with relocation laws.  

Pre-Construction Work Signals Progress 

Visible signs of activity such as soil borings, test pits, and utility mapping are currently underway in Bourne. These field investigations support both the design and permitting phases and are not related to property takings.  

Tunnel and Canal Alternatives Addressed 

In response to recurring public questions, MassDOT committed to re-explaining alternatives that were evaluated and dismissed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at upcoming meetings. The Corps’ 2022 analysis ruled out alternatives like tunnels or single-span bridges due to cost, feasibility, and long-term efficiency.  

Designing for Resilience 

The new bridge design also addresses concerns raised by the tragic 2024 collapse of Baltimore’s Key Bridge which was caused by a vessel striking the bridge piers. MassDOT confirmed that the new piers will be placed entirely outside of maritime navigation channels, eliminating the risk of ship strikes. 

MassDOT continues to encourage public engagement and feedback throughout the planning and design process. Residents and stakeholders are invited to reach out directly to project leaders or participate in upcoming public forums. 

Visit www.capecodcommission.org/canal and www.mass.gov/cape-bridges for details on the project.