MassDOT presents multimodal improvements and project timelines across Cape Cod towns

The Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) meeting held on January 22, 2023, focused on several key transportation projects across the region, highlighting ongoing developments and future plans. The meeting provided updates on various projects, including roadway reconstructions and multimodal improvements aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility.

One of the significant projects discussed was the Route 28 reconstruction in Dennis and Harwich, which is currently at 75% design status. This project, with an estimated budget of $7.8 million, includes improvements such as bike lanes, sidewalks, and lighting, along with a traffic signal upgrade. The project is on track for bid advertisement in March 2025.

Another major initiative is the Provincetown Shank Painter Road project, which aims to modernize the roadway by converting a section into a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. This project is also at 75% design and has received federal grant funding to assist with improvements related to federal land access. A public hearing is scheduled for June to gather community feedback.

The Bourne Rail Trails phase 1 project was highlighted as well, with a budget of approximately $4.2 million for constructing a shared-use path from the Cape Cod Canal into the Great Gables neighborhood. This project is progressing as planned and is expected to be ready for 2025.

In addition to these projects, the meeting addressed future plans, including a signal upgrade project in Chatham and a streetscape project in Dennis, both scheduled for 2027. The Chatham project is estimated at $3 million and aims to incorporate multimodal improvements, while the Dennis project is budgeted at $10 million and focuses on enhancing Route 28.

The MPO also discussed the challenges of funding, noting that many projects remain unfunded despite being prioritized. The organization plans to review financials in the coming months to determine if new projects can be programmed.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure in Cape Cod, with a focus on safety, accessibility, and community engagement. The MPO will continue to monitor project developments and funding opportunities in the months ahead.