News Summary
This summer, Rhode Island is launching a significant construction season aimed at enhancing its transportation infrastructure. With an investment of approximately $779 million, various highway and road projects are set to improve traffic flow, safety, and connectivity by 2031. Noteworthy initiatives include the replacement of bridges along I-95, the transformation of Route 10 into a boulevard, and extensive upgrades to other critical routes. These developments will address aging infrastructure and support economic growth, promoting safer commuting for residents and visitors alike.
Rhode Island’s Summer Construction Season Brings Major Road Projects to Transform Infrastructure by 2031
Providence, Rhode Island — During this summer’s construction season, numerous highway and road projects are underway across Rhode Island, aimed at improving transportation infrastructure over the next several years. These efforts, with a total investment of approximately $779 million, are scheduled to be completed by 2031 and will significantly enhance traffic flow, safety, and connectivity throughout the state.
Key Projects and Their Scope
One of the flagship initiatives, the “I-95 15” project, involves replacing 15 bridges along the interstate in Providence and Cranston, separate from the downtown Providence viaduct upgrade. This work is part of a larger effort to modernize the corridor, reduce congestion, and facilitate smoother travel for commuters and visitors alike.
Another major focus is the transformation of Route 10. Originally a freeway, it is being converted into a boulevard featuring amenities such as landscaped streetscapes and a shared-use path connecting U.S. Highway 1 and Route 12. This project aims to improve local accessibility, especially to important destinations like Roger Williams Park, the Zoo, and Botanical Center, by providing safe and convenient pedestrian and bike access.
The Boulevard Project is expected to be completed by 2030. Currently, work is reducing Route 10 to one lane in each direction from the I-95 ramps to Park Avenue as part of the transformation process. Starting July 28, traffic on Eddy Street over I-95 will be limited to a single lane indefinitely, with an alternating traffic pattern during bridge construction.
Structural Replacements and Upgrades
Significant infrastructure replacements include the West River Street Bridge in Providence and multiple bridge replacements on Route 37, with 22 bridges targeted across three phases. The Route 37 project not only replaces aging structures but also involves highway widening and safety enhancements at the interchange with I-295, addressing nearly half of the bridges in poor condition across the state.
Further, Route 146 is undergoing a comprehensive redesign at Sayles Hill Road. The improvements will include bridge replacements, the repaving of 8 miles of roadway, and traffic flow adjustments to enhance safety and reduce crashes.
Key Interchange and Corridor Improvements
The intersection at RI-10 and RI-12 will be upgraded to an at-grade intersection featuring safety enhancements and complete streets elements to promote safer pedestrian and vehicular movement. Additionally, multiple new ramps and the construction of roundabouts at Phillips Street, Boston Neck Road, and Brown Street aim to streamline traffic patterns and improve access.
The I-95 viaduct, which measures 1,295 feet, is being redesigned to separate northbound traffic from Route 146 access, with an aim to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow efficiency.
Bridge Replacements and Road Resurfacing
Beyond structural upgrades, the state is replacing the Tower Hill Road bridge in North Kingstown, with resurfacing work occurring on affected 6.5 miles of roadway. Nighttime lane closures are expected starting July. Additionally, two bridges over I-95 and I-295 are scheduled for replacement beginning in 2024, at an estimated cost of $102.4 million.
Washington Bridge Reconstruction
One of the most notable projects includes the reconstruction of the Washington Bridge in Providence. Funded by over $220 million in federal grants and a $339 million investment from Walsh Construction Co., demolition of the old bridge has commenced. The new bridge, designed for a 100-year lifespan and easier maintenance, is expected to be completed by November 2028. Incentives of up to $10 million are available for early completion of new lanes on this route, which is crucial for regional traffic flow.
Road Closures and Working Schedules
Routine work includes water and sewer line replacements along School Street in Lincoln, scheduled from May 2023 through December 2025. The Tower Hill Road project in North Kingstown involves resurfacing and bridge replacement activities, with nighttime lane closures expected from July onward.
These ongoing projects are expected to substantially improve Rhode Island’s transportation network, addressing aging infrastructure, increasing safety measures, and supporting economic development in the years to come.
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HERE Resources
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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