Foundation load testing
MassDOT has begun its foundation load testing for the future construction of the replacement Sagamore Bridge in Bourne. Foundation load testing activities will be intermittent, limited to daytime hours on weekdays, and will last for 2-3 months.
The work will include drilling shafts and driving piles into the ground to gather data in support of the foundation design of the future Sagamore Bridge. Foundation load testing will take place at four locations near the Sagamore Bridge: two north of the Cape Cod Canal and two south of the canal. Activities south of the Sagamore Bridge are starting first, in the area of the former Christmas Tree Shops location.
Residents and travelers may hear loud banging sounds associated with pile driving. The shaft drilling will generate less noise and will last for several months. “Work in Progress – Early Work for the New Sagamore Bridge” signs are placed near the site to inform the public of the work.
Environmental
The Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act Office issued a certificate on the Final Environmental Impact Report for the Cape Cod Bridges in April 2026. The Federal Highway Administration approved the project’s Final Environmental Impact Statement and issued a Record of Decision concluding the National Environmental Policy Act process in June 2026. These marked major milestones in advancing the replacement of the Cape Cod bridges.
Borings
MassDOT is currently conducting subsurface investigations and related vegetation management operations alongside state highways and on US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) property in areas north and south of the Sagamore Bridge in Bourne.
These borings involve drilling into the ground to extract soil samples. MassDOT will analyze the samples to learn about subsurface conditions such as soil strength and composition. This information is critical to designing safe and durable bridge components and related infrastructure nearby.
This work will enable future construction operations and is an example of MassDOT's commitment to advancing work efficiently and effectively. These critical activities represent some of the first early action items. MassDOT will continue to provide public updates as the borings work continues.
