Veterans Memorial Bridge, Bascule bridge in Somerset and Fall River, Massachusetts, US
Veterans Memorial Bridge is a bascule bridge spanning the Taunton River between Somerset and Fall River while carrying U.S. Route 6 and Route 138. It includes a wide bike path on its north side with connecting ramps providing access to Route 79.
Construction began in 2007 as part of broader regional infrastructure planning and faced initial funding constraints. The bridge opened in 2011 and provided a new crossing for vehicular and bicycle traffic between the two towns.
The bridge honors veterans through its name and serves as a daily passage for commuters crossing between Somerset and Fall River. A dedicated bike path on the north side reflects the community's investment in alternative transportation options.
Best accessed via U.S. Route 6 or Route 138, with the bike path offering a safe option for cyclists during any weather. The bridge experiences heavier use during rush hours, and the path can become crowded on pleasant days.
The shipping channel beneath this span accommodates larger vessels than the earlier neighboring bridge, allowing commercial traffic to pass with greater ease. This expanded waterway clearance was a key reason for the project and sets it apart from the older crossing.
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