New Bedford Sees Route 18 Closures, Murder Charge, and MBTA Service Changes

A recap of the top stories from the past week in New Bedford, including infrastructure projects, a high-profile crime case, and transit updates.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:07am

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A photorealistic painting of a lone traffic signal or road sign on a quiet New Bedford street, the scene bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of urban nostalgia and contemplation.A serene street scene in downtown New Bedford captures the city's resilience amid infrastructure changes and economic shifts.New Bedford Today

The past week in New Bedford, Massachusetts saw a number of notable news stories, including upcoming closures and detours for the I-195/Route 18 Interchange Rehabilitation Project, the sentencing of a man convicted of first-degree murder, and service changes to the MBTA Commuter Rail lines serving the region. The city also saw the announced closure of a beloved local art gallery and gift shop after 14 years in business.

Why it matters

These stories highlight the ongoing infrastructure improvements, public safety concerns, and changes to regional transportation that are impacting the New Bedford community. The closure of a long-standing local business also reflects the broader economic shifts occurring in the city's downtown area.

The details

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is continuing work on the I-195/Route 18 Interchange Rehabilitation Project, which will require various ramp and street closures in New Bedford from March 22 to April 5. Drivers and pedestrians may encounter detours on local roadways like Purchase Street, North Front Street, and Cedar Grove Street. A 22-year-old New Bedford man, Xavier Luis Rodriguez, was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of the first-degree murder of 20-year-old Lorenzo Gomes in 2023. Rodriguez must serve at least 25 years of the life sentence. New Bedford's downtown will transform into a film set on March 28 as nine filmmaking teams participate in the third annual NB48: Filmmaking Challenge, creating short films at various local businesses. After 14 years in business, with the last seven based in downtown, the beloved local gallery and gift shop The Drawing Room will be closing its doors on April 9.

  • The I-195/Route 18 Interchange Rehabilitation Project closures and detours will occur from March 22 to April 5.
  • Xavier Luis Rodriguez was sentenced on Monday, March 23, 2026.
  • The NB48: Filmmaking Challenge will take place on March 28, 2026.
  • The Drawing Room will be closing its doors on April 9, 2026.

The players

Xavier Luis Rodriguez

A 22-year-old New Bedford man who was found guilty of the first-degree murder of 20-year-old Lorenzo Gomes in 2023 and sentenced to life in prison.

Lorenzo Gomes

A 20-year-old New Bedford man who was the victim of a 2023 murder.

Anthi Frangiadis

The owner of The Drawing Room, a local gallery and gift shop in downtown New Bedford that is closing after 14 years in business.

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What they’re saying

“The decision to close was hers, rooted in both the changing landscape of retail and a desire to return her focus to her architecture and design practice.”

— Anthi Frangiadis, Owner, The Drawing Room

What’s next

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation will continue the I-195/Route 18 Interchange Rehabilitation Project in New Bedford, with additional closures and detours expected in the coming weeks. The NB48: Filmmaking Challenge will take place on March 28, showcasing the creative talents of local filmmakers. The Drawing Room will hold a final sale with significant discounts before closing its doors on April 9.

The takeaway

These stories highlight the ongoing infrastructure improvements, public safety concerns, and economic shifts impacting the New Bedford community. While the city faces challenges, it also continues to foster creativity and support local businesses, showcasing the resilience of this South Coast Massachusetts city.