Cape Cod Bridges Record of Decision Posted in Federal Register
Published on: August 10, 2026
Federal document outlines selected alternative for replacement of Sagamore and Bourne bridges
The Cape Cod Bridges Program’s Record of Decision has been posted in the Federal Register, marking another step in the federal process for replacement of the Sagamore and Bourne bridges.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued the Record of Decision in June, concluding the federal environmental review process under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The document formally designates the Build Alternative as the Selected Alternative for the Cape Cod Bridges Program.
The selected alternative calls for replacing the existing Sagamore and Bourne bridges with new bridges built to current federal and state highway design standards. It also includes changes to highway approaches and interchange networks on both sides of the Cape Cod Canal.
What the Record of Decision Means
The Record of Decision documents FHWA’s determination that federal NEPA requirements for the Cape Cod Bridges Program have been satisfied and identifies the alternative selected through the environmental review process.
The program is designed to improve mobility and accessibility between Cape Cod and mainland Massachusetts while addressing the increasing maintenance needs and functional obsolescence of the aging Sagamore and Bourne bridges.
The two bridges are the only roadway connections between mainland Massachusetts and Cape Cod, making them critical links in the regional and statewide transportation network.
Under the selected alternative, the program includes:
- Replacement of the existing Sagamore and Bourne bridges with new bridge structures meeting current design standards;
- Reconfiguration of highway approaches and interchange networks surrounding both canal crossings;
- Physically separated pedestrian and bicycle accommodations on the replacement bridges, with improved connections to surrounding sidewalks and shared-use paths; and
- Transportation improvements intended to address existing congestion, roadway geometry and safety deficiencies.
Sagamore Bridge First, Followed by Bourne
The Cape Cod Bridges Program is planned in two phases, beginning with the Sagamore Bridge Project as Phase 1, followed by the Bourne Bridge Project as Phase 2.
According to the Record of Decision, at least two lanes of traffic in each direction across the Cape Cod Canal are planned to be maintained throughout construction.
The document also outlines measures intended to avoid, minimize or mitigate environmental impacts associated with the program, including considerations related to transportation, pedestrian and bicycle access, wetlands and floodplains, water quality, cultural resources and public recreation areas.
Learn More
Residents can learn more about the Cape Cod Bridges Program through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and review the Record of Decision.
MassDOT Cape Cod Bridges Program
🔗 Read the Cape Cod Bridges Program Record of Decision:
capecod.gov/bridge-decision
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