New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge Closed Due to Mechanical Issue

Drivers told to seek alternate routes as bridge closure expected to last several hours.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has announced that the New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge, which carries Route 6 traffic, will be closed to vehicles for several hours due to a mechanical issue. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes, as the surrounding area is expected to become extra busy due to an ongoing construction project on Interstate 195.

Why it matters

The New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge is a critical transportation link between the two cities, and its closure will cause significant disruption to local traffic patterns. This issue highlights the importance of maintaining and repairing aging infrastructure to ensure reliable transportation options for residents and commuters.

The details

According to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the swing bridge that carries Route 6 traffic between New Bedford and Fairhaven has experienced a mechanical issue, forcing its closure to vehicles. The closure is expected to last for several hours, and motorists are advised to seek alternate routes, as the surrounding area, including Coggeshall Street, is expected to become extra busy due to an ongoing construction project on Interstate 195.

  • The bridge closure was announced on March 9, 2026.

The players

Massachusetts Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for maintaining and repairing transportation infrastructure in Massachusetts.

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What they’re saying

“Motorists who would normally use the Route 6 bridge should seek alternate routes.”

— Massachusetts Department of Transportation (wbsm.com)

What’s next

Updates on the bridge closure will be posted on the Mass511 mobile app and at Mass511.com, as well as on the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's X account.

The takeaway

This bridge closure highlights the ongoing need for investment in maintaining and repairing critical transportation infrastructure, as mechanical issues can cause significant disruptions to local traffic patterns and commutes.