NEW BEDFORD — The estimated $400 million replacement of the 1,350-foot-long, many-ramped “viaduct” bridge that carries Interstate 195 over Route 18 is a little like heart surgery on New Bedford.

This is right in the middle of New Bedford.” But the work — which will stretch from County Street to Route 18 northbound to the eastern side — is also vital to the region, he said.

New Bedford and Martha's Vineyard were once connected by the ferry Schamonchi. Now it is slowly sinking in a New York creek ...