Bird's Eye View of Brightman Bridge Progress

Progress is plain to see from the air as the new Brightman Street Bridge takes shape over the Taunton River between Fall River and Somerset. 

The existing bridge carrying Route 6 seen in the background dates to 1906.  It carries 45,000 cars daily and because of lack of clearance must be opened often, causing traffic congestion.

The new bridge is a double leaf bascule or movable bridge that will carry the relocated Route 6 while providing 60 feet clearance above the water and 200 feet in horizontal opening from side-to-side, to the benefit of traffic above and below.  The project began a decade ago and is one of the largest bridge projects in Commonwealth history.  The $186 million contract, the largest and final of four separate contracts to build the bridge, is now in progress, with work continuing on the bascule girders that will allow opening of the bridge span.  Completion of the bridge is scheduled for fall 2012.  Learn more about MassDOT road and bridge projects across the state.