News Summary
Rhode Island is undergoing significant road construction projects this summer, with an investment of approximately $779 million aimed at enhancing the state’s transportation infrastructure. Key projects include the I-95 15 project, which will replace 15 bridges, and Route 10’s transformation into a boulevard. Local travel patterns will change as road work progresses, and federal funding supports crucial initiatives like the Washington Bridge reconstruction, promising better connectivity and safety for residents and visitors alike.
Providence, Rhode Island – Major road construction projects are transforming the transportation landscape in Rhode Island this summer, impacting local travel and connectivity significantly. As part of a comprehensive initiative set to enhance the state’s infrastructure, these projects, which begin in 2024 and are expected to be completed by 2031, will require an investment of approximately $779 million.
The centerpiece of this infrastructure overhaul is the I-95 15 project, which is dedicated to replacing 15 bridges along I-95 in Providence and Cranston. Notably, this project is separate from the ongoing renovations of the downtown Providence viaduct. As part of roadway improvements, Route 10 will be converted from a freeway into a boulevard that is equipped with public amenities and a shared-use path connecting U.S. Highway 1 and Route 12.
Travelers should prepare for changes affecting local traffic patterns, particularly on Eddy Street where access over I-95 will be limited to one lane indefinitely starting July 28 due to essential bridge work. This will feature an alternating traffic pattern. In addition, Route 10 is currently operating with one lane in each direction from the I-95 ramps to Park Avenue, in order to facilitate the transformation into a boulevard, expected to conclude by 2030.
Key Projects Underway
Multiple projects are in different stages of development across the state. The Route 37 project encompasses the replacement of 22 bridges across three phases, targeting nearly half of the bridges categorized as being in poor condition. Additionally, this initiative includes enhancements to widen highways and bolster safety at the Route 37 and I-295 interchange.
The Route 146 project is also making strides, as it undergoes a full redesign near Sayles Hill Road to promote safer traffic flow and mitigate crash incidents. This project will involve multiple bridge replacements and a comprehensive 8-mile repaving route.
In Lincoln, School Street remains closed for much-needed water and sewer line replacements as well as repaving, which is scheduled from May 22, 2023, to December 2025. Similarly, the Tower Hill Road bridge in North Kingstown is undergoing replacement with night work anticipated from July onward.
Safety Improvements and Connectivity
Areas of focus are also being directed toward enhancing safety features at intersections. The intersection between RI-10 and RI-12 will be redesigned to establish an at-grade crossing, which will incorporate complete streets elements aimed at improving safety and accessibility for all users.
A significant initiative known informally as “Stumpgate” had previously emerged due to a contractor cutting down more trees than permitted, leading to a commitment for replanting efforts scheduled between 2025 and 2027. Additionally, Route 10’s new boulevard will include a protected shared-use path to improve connectivity between Cranston and Providence, enhancing access to local attractions such as Roger Williams Park, Zoo, and Botanic Center.
Funding and Future Outlook
As of now, Rhode Island has secured over $220 million in federal funding to support the reconstruction of the new Washington Bridge in Providence. Walsh Construction Co. is currently handling the project at an estimated cost of $339 million, which is anticipated to be completed by November 2028. The project’s design includes a lifespan of 100 years, ensuring better maintenance and reduced long-term costs.
Demolition of the old Washington Bridge has already commenced, with traffic currently directed over the eastbound side, allowing the new construction to progress smoothly. Incentives up to $10 million are in place for early completion of new lanes on the bridge, further encouraging timely project execution.
In conclusion, as numerous road projects move forward across Rhode Island, residents and visitors alike will experience significant changes in travel and connectivity, with an eye on improved safety and infrastructure by 2031.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: RI Summer Beach Traffic
- Construction Dive: Walsh Rhode Island I-195 Rebuild
- Rhode Island Current: Washington Bridge Demolition Resumes
- Roads & Bridges: Rhode Island’s Washington Bridge Replacement
- Valley Breeze: Route 146 Flyover Project Progress
- Wikipedia: Rhode Island
- Google Search: Rhode Island construction projects
- Google Scholar: Rhode Island infrastructure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhode Island
- Google News: Rhode Island traffic
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