How to Adopt Cape Cod’s Famous Bourne and Sagamore Bridges

CAPE COD (WBSM) — You’ve probably heard someone tell you a lie, only to follow it up with, “and if you believe that, I have a bridge to sell you.” The saying goes back to George C. Parker “selling” the Brooklyn Bridge to unsuspecting immigrants multiple times in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

It’s amazing that people actually fell for Parker’s scam. However, one thing that is true: Cape Cod has not one but two bridges you could “adopt.”

It was announced today by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that both the Bourne Bridge and the Sagamore Bridge are up for adoption. The bridges that traverse the Cape Cod Canal are being replaced, and the current bridges are yours for the taking if you’ve got the right plan for removing, relocating, and repurposing one or both of them.

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The Logistics of Moving Tons of Steel

It’s not a bad plan to help offset the cost of removing the federally owned and operated bridges. However, moving them to a new location will not be easy or cheap. The Sagamore Bridge is 1,833 feet long, while the Bourne Bridge is 2,684 feet. That’s a lot of steel to move.

Barry Richard/Townsquare Media

The bridges were constructed between 1933 and 1935, and because of that, the USACE said, “paint systems on both bridges contain lead and other possible constituents requiring controlled removal and containment that may result in additional cost to the adopter.”

What You Need to Do to Adopt a Cape Cod Bridge

The USACE is accepting proposals for the relocation and alternative use of the bridges until June 26, 2026.

“Interested adopters must submit a relocation plan detailing the bridge’s proposed use, location, schedule for relocation, and the available resources to ensure continued maintenance of these structures,” according to the USACE. “Interested adopters must demonstrate the ability to comply with all applicable environmental regulations, including requirements for hazardous materials handling, waste disposal, and location specific permitting.”

How to Submit Your Cape Cod Bridge Adoption Proposal

Anyone interested in adopting either the Bourne or Sagamore Bridge can submit their proposal on the USACE New England District website.

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Source: Why the Government Is Giving Away the Iconic Cape Cod Canal Bridges for Free