Maintaining historic integrity amidst construction
Streetscape upgrades retained historic elements: streetlights, cobblestone walkways, and copperhead lamps.
With CDM Smith’s support, New Bedford transformed Union Street through a corridor improvement program, preserving historic character while upgrading aging infrastructure.
City of New Bedford
New Bedford, Massachusetts
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.
Streetscape upgrades retained historic elements: streetlights, cobblestone walkways, and copperhead lamps.
The project replaced water mains, separated sewers, and coordinated relocation of gas, electric, and fiber-optic lines.
Extensive private utility coordination and cooperation was the backbone of a successful design and construction process.
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.
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