New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge Study Nearing Completion

The New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge isn't going anywhere soon, but MassDOT officials are close to finishing their study on possible options to make it better for both vehicular and marine traffic.

Only about a dozen people turned out to the public informational meeting at the Waypoint Event Center Thursday evening. 

MassDOT Project Manager Ethan Britland says input from all people involved is important in drafting the final recommendation in June.

There is no guarantee that the proposed project will be accepted by MassDOT, but Britland says the support can only help. "The overall goal is to get something that's supported by as many stakeholders as possible. That's really the key for getting something moved forward."

The study is suggesting either restoring the current 100 year old bridge, or replacing it with one of five options that will widen the roadways and navigational channel.

The project would also make changes to traffic flow along Route 6 and add new bike and pedestrian paths.

Plans for better bridge closing notification and signage is also part of the short term alternatives.

Costs and construction times vary, and more details can be found in the chart below.