Update on Washington Bridge, East Providence/Providence

RIDOT continues to expedite the inspections and analysis of the bridge. This analysis is complex and it takes time. The Department, working in conjunction with several engineering consultants, is working 24/7 to assess the condition of the full bridge and develop an analysis that is comprehensive and will result in a bridge that will be safe.

The findings of this evaluation will determine the scope of the work that needs to be done, as well as the schedule and cost. Until that is done, RIDOT does not have an estimate on the time to reopen the bridge.

The analysis could come to a number of conclusions, including repair of the existing structure, or a more extensive reconstruction. A decision will not be made until the analysis is complete. Whichever course of action the Department will take, accelerated bridge construction methods will be used to repair the bridge as quickly as possible.

Regardless of the scope of work, RIDOT is strategizing various construction scenarios to determine how we can phase the work to open new lanes and maximize the flow of traffic as soon as possible. The Department also is developing contingencies for funding to be redirected to this project to assure that it has priority.

Please check out our webpage that is dedicated to the Washington Bridge Closure project.