Friday, August 16, 2024 The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is issuing a reminder to motorists about the extended weekend closure scheduled for a short section of I-295, spanning from Warwick to Cranston. This closure, beginning Friday night, August 16, is necessary for the replacement of the structurally deficient Providence Street Bridge. The closure will include both full highway closures and lane reductions, with all lanes expected to reopen by 6 a.
m. on Tuesday, August 20. RIDOT is employing accelerated bridge construction techniques to replace the aging bridge.
Throughout the weekend, the old bridge will be demolished and the new one put in place, minimizing long-term disruption. Providence Street will also be closed at the bridge, with local detours via Route 2 and East Avenue. The Providence Street Bridge, originally built in 1968, carries approximately 10,500 vehicles daily.
This project, part of the RhodeWorks initiative and funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Improvement Act, aims to complete the replacement by spring 2025. All construction timelines are subject to change based on weather and other factors..