Press Release: 7/1/2026

Healey-Driscoll Administration Celebrates Historic Milestone for Cape Cod Bridges Program

 

MassDOT Earns Federal Approval of Final Environmental Impact Statement in Compressed Timeline, Marking First Roadway Project to Receive This Approval in Massachusetts since 1991

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

6/30/2026

MEDIA CONTACT

Marshall Hook, Director of Communications

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Call Marshall Hook, Director of Communications at (857) 368-8500

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Email Marshall Hook, Director of Communications at marshall.p.hook@dot.state.ma.us

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced another major milestone in its efforts to replace the aging Cape Cod Bridges, as the Federal Highway Administration approved the project’s Final Environmental Impact Statement and issued a Record of Decision. The approval marks the first time that FHWA has approved a Final EIS for a roadway project in Massachusetts since 1991 and marks a significant step forward for this historic project. It concludes the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, clears the way for final permitting and brings Massachusetts closer to securing more than $1 billion in federal funding to help construct the new bridges. 

"From day one, we've made replacing the Cape Cod Bridges a top priority because we know how important they are to residents, businesses and everyone who depends on them,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This federal approval is another major step toward delivering the modern, reliable bridges that Cape Cod deserves, and we'll keep working every day to move this project into construction." 

"Communities across Cape Cod have waited a long time for this project to move forward, and today's milestone brings us another step closer to delivering the safe, reliable bridges they deserve,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Replacing the Cape Cod Bridges will improve safety, strengthen the regional economy and make it easier for residents, workers and visitors to travel throughout the region. We're grateful to everyone who has helped move this project forward, and we're committed to keeping that momentum going." 

The federal review process began in 2024, and FHWA's approval reflects years of close collaboration among federal, state, regional and local partners. Because of the size and complexity of the project, FHWA required the highest level of environmental review — an uncommon step that underscores the significance of the Cape Cod Bridges Program. 

MassDOT is currently completing the acquisition of property needed for the Sagamore Bridge replacement and evaluating statements of qualifications from design-build teams interested in delivering the project. The department anticipates awarding a construction contract in late 2027. 

The new bridges will improve safety, reduce congestion, strengthen regional economic growth, enhance emergency access and create a more reliable transportation connection for Cape Cod residents, businesses and the millions of visitors who travel to the region each year. 

“The historic federal approval demonstrates the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering transformational infrastructure projects that improve the lives of Massachusetts residents,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. "The Cape Cod Bridges are vital to the Commonwealth’s transportation network and reaching this milestone – the first FHWA Final Environmental Impact Statement approval in Massachusetts in three decades- is a testament to the dedication of our federal, state and local partners. We are committed to moving this project forward and delivering safe, reliable, and modern bridges that will serve the region for years to come.” 

“This is an extraordinary milestone not only for the Cape Cod Bridges Program, but for transportation in Massachusetts,” said Undersecretary of Transportation and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. “Receiving FHWA approval of the Final EIS – the first in Massachusetts since 1991 – reflects the years of thoughtful planning, robust engagement and close coordination with our federal and state partners as well as the Town of Bourne. This achievement brings us significantly closer to delivering infrastructure that will improve safety, connectivity and travel experience for Cape Cod residents and visitors.”  

The Healey-Driscoll Administration remains committed to advancing the project through its next phases, including final design, permitting and construction, while continuing to work closely with federal, regional, municipal and community partners to deliver a transportation system that meets the needs of future generations.  

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