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New Bedford’s historic downtown, brick buildings with water in distanceNew Bedford’s historic downtown, brick buildings with water in distance

Renewing New Bedford’s historic downtown  

With CDM Smith’s support, New Bedford transformed Union Street through a corridor improvement program, preserving historic character while upgrading aging infrastructure. 

Client

City of New Bedford

Location

New Bedford, Massachusetts

Connect with an expert

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Lisa Sherman PE, PTOE, PMP
Traffic and Safety Discipline Leader

Two-phased revitalization for a historic corridor  

For over 200 years, Union Street has been downtown New Bedford’s core, linking the waterfront with neighborhoods, retail, culture, and government. A two-phase revitalization plan—vibrant streetscaping, underground utility coordination and top-notch safety improvements—ensures New Bedford’s livability for years to come. 

Maintaining historic integrity amidst construction 

Streetscape upgrades retained historic elements: streetlights, cobblestone walkways, and copperhead lamps. 

Modernized infrastructure assets 

The project replaced water mains, separated sewers, and coordinated relocation of gas, electric, and fiber-optic lines. 

Streamlined utility integration 

Extensive private utility coor­di­na­tion and cooperation was the backbone of a successful design and construc­tion process. 

Engaging stakeholders and the community 

The team held workshops and coordinated communication to minimize disruption to residents, businesses, and the community. 

“The entire Union Street project is a great example of New Bedford’s holistic approach to infrastructure improvements,” says Lisa Sherman, project manager. “It showcases the city’s goals to not only enhance a transportation corridor, but also instill a sense of place, purpose, and sustained livability.”  

With these improvements, Union Street’s form now mirrors its function as the centerpiece of a great American downtown.  

Curious to learn more?

Connect with an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

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Lisa Sherman

Senior Transportation Project Manager

Lisa is skilled in transportation services including intersection improvements, traffic signal and roadway design, traffic calming, planning, funding and public facilitation.

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