Overview
The Cape Cod Bridges Program proposes to replace both the Sagamore and Bourne Bridges, improve the Cape Cod Canal area roadway networks, and address multimodal deficiencies.
Each existing bridge will be replaced with twin-bridge structures, separating traffic in each direction to its own bridge. This will not only increase safety and improve traffic operations once the Program is complete but will also reduce construction impacts on the traveling public and the navigational channel. It will allow construction to be conducted in stages, so that two lanes of travel in each direction can be maintained, without long-term lane closures during construction.
The approach spans will be constructed on land, while the arch spans will be fabricated off-site. These spans will then be floated in and lifted into place. An example video of this process from the Lake Champlain Bridge in New York can be viewed online.
The Program is proposing twin arch type bridges at both crossings. This is based upon community engagement and a public survey, which showed overwhelming support for this bridge type over several other options. Additionally, rigorous design and engineering studies and considerations indicate that this bridge type is preferable compared to other alternatives. For example, the twin arch type would have the lowest cost and shortest construction duration.
Below are some additional areas of interest and concern from public feedback. All are being considered as the design develops and will be discussed at future public meetings.
- Arch and bridge pier aesthetics
- Aesthetic and highway lighting
- Barrier fencing for pedestrian safety
- Bridge shared use path configuration, overlook areas and safety provisions
- Retention and reuse of historic artifacts from the existing bridges
The bridges would also have an expected 100-year lifespan and would be designed and constructed in ways that would minimize costs and impacts of future maintenance activities.
The Program has identified a range of feasible roadway approach alternatives to continue through the environmental permitting process. These alternative roadway configurations are being assessed for operational and safety improvements, environmental and property impacts, constructability, staging, and cost.
Additionally, this Program will create safe routes for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the canal, provide scenic overlooks on the bridges, complete a new loop trail between the bridges, and improve connections to local roadways, businesses, residences, and other multimodal trails. Each crossing will have a barrier separated shared use path as well as connections to the Cape Cod Canal service roads. Along the local roadways, accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists will be introduced or improved to meet the goals of MassDOT's Healthy Transportation Policy Directive.
More details and visuals regarding the proposal can be found online by viewing the graphics from the May 17, 2023 Open House.