Bourne Bridge

Bourne Bridge is a steel arch crossing in Bourne, Massachusetts, linking Cape Cod to the mainland over the canal. The roadway rests on a metal arch frame and carries four lanes plus a narrow walkway along the western side.

The crossing opened in 1933, replacing an older drawbridge after the canal was widened. Construction took place under a federal program during the economic downturn of that decade.

The American Institute of Steel Construction recognized the bridge with a Class A Award of Merit for its steel design in 1934.

The lanes are fairly tight with no shoulder, so traffic often slows and merges early. The walkway is open for pedestrians, though wind can be strong at that height.

Cargo ships and small coastal vessels pass beneath the arch because the canal clearance is wide enough for commercial traffic. On clear days you can watch the water current from the walkway and sometimes spot anglers along the shore.

Location: Bourne

Inception: June 22, 1935

Architects: Cram and Ferguson Architects, Fay, Spofford & Thorndike

Official opening: June 22, 1935

GPS coordinates: 41.74770,-70.58950

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:31