Innovative design and construction approach improves mobility, safety and future development opportunities in Fall River

BOSTON (Feb. 18, 2026) – The Route 79/Davol Street Corridor Improvements project has been honored as the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) New England Section Project of the Year in the projects over $100 million category. The recognition highlights the project’s transformative impact on the city of Fall River and its innovative approach to design, construction, mobility and community connectivity.

Delivered in collaboration with the D.W. White Construction and SPS New England joint venture for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), the project replaces the former elevated Route 79 expressway with an at‑grade urban boulevard that reconnects neighborhoods, improves access to the waterfront and supports long‑term economic development. Key features include a new multimodal corridor with four miles of shared use paths, a redesigned roadway network with six new intersections, 3,000 feet of reconstructed box culvert, extensive utility relocation and upgrades, stormwater infiltration systems and improved connections to the South Coast Rail station.

“This project represents a once in a generation opportunity for Fall River,” said Jonathan Kapust, PE, HNTB senior project manager and associate vice president. “By removing the elevated highway, we created space for safer travel, new development areas and dramatically improved access to the waterfront. Our team is proud to help deliver a project that provides meaningful benefits to residents and supports the city’s future growth.”

The project team employed several innovative strategies to accelerate delivery and maintain traffic flow. A comprehensive 3D utility model minimized conflicts and relocation needs. Early closure of the elevated expressway allowed demolition and major construction activities to advance during winter months, reducing noise and community impact. A unique staging approach preserved the existing at‑grade roadway network while enabling an earthwork superhighway for efficient material movement. The project reached substantial completion one construction season ahead of schedule, with full completion expected in spring 2026.

The Route 79/Davol Street Corridor Improvements project helps reconnect Fall River’s urban fabric, enhances safety for all modes and strengthens resilience by modernizing aging infrastructure. With approximately 21 acres opened for future development and significant new green space and stormwater improvements, the project positions the city for continued economic and community revitalization.

The project team was presented with the award at the ASHE New England Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala on February 17 at the Row Hotel at Assembly Row.