News Summary
Rhode Island is set to undergo significant infrastructure changes with numerous road and bridge projects slated to begin this summer and conclude by 2031. With a budget of approximately $779 million, key projects include the I-95 15 project, which replaces 15 bridges, and the transformation of Route 10 into a boulevard. Travelers should anticipate traffic disruptions while major renovations, including the upgrade of crucial intersections, proceed. These developments aim to enhance connectivity and improve safety across the state’s transportation network.
Providence, Rhode Island
This summer construction season, Rhode Island is abuzz with numerous major road and bridge projects, set to modify the state’s infrastructure significantly by 2031. The total budget for these projects is approximately $779 million, with activities commencing in 2024 and anticipated completion by 2031. Travelers, particularly beachgoers and families, should prepare for some disruptions as construction turns various roadways into improved pathways.
I-95 15 Project
A key feature of the ongoing construction is the I-95 15 project, which involves the replacement of 15 bridges on I-95 in the Providence and Cranston areas. This influential project is separate from the existing downtown Providence viaduct redesign intended to alleviate congestion and ensure smoother traffic flow.
Route 10 Transformation
A significant transformation is also on the horizon for Route 10, changing from a freeway layout to a boulevard. This upgrade will include a protected shared-use path designed to enhance connectivity between Cranston and Providence, providing access to local attractions such as Roger Williams Park, the Zoo, and the Botanical Center. Work currently in progress is reducing Route 10 to one lane in each direction from the I-95 ramps to Park Avenue, with completion of the boulevard project expected by 2030.
Traffic Updates and Changes
Motorists ought to be wary of changing traffic patterns, as starting July 28, traffic on Eddy Street over I-95 will be limited to one lane due to bridge work. An alternating traffic pattern will be implemented to manage the flow during this construction phase.
Bridge and Road Projects
The Route 37 project targets significant improvements, including the replacement of 22 bridges over three phases. This endeavor aims to address nearly half of the bridges classified as in poor condition and will also widen highways while enhancing safety at the Route 37 and I-295 interchange.
Additionally, Route 146 is undergoing a full redesign at Sayles Hill Road. This aims to improve safety and reduce crash incidents through multiple bridge replacements and rejuvenation of 8 miles of roadway. Meanwhile, another bridge reconstruction over I-95 and I-295 is set to commence in 2024, with a projected completion date in 2027, and is estimated to cost $102.4 million.
Local Developments
In Lincoln, School Street is currently closed for essential water and sewer line replacements along with repaving. These activities are scheduled from May 22, 2023, to December 2025. Similarly, the Tower Hill Road bridge in North Kingstown is being replaced, with resurfacing work extending across 6.5 miles of road, prompting nighttime lane closures expected from July onward.
A roundabout will be constructed at Phillips Street, Boston Neck Road, and Brown Street to facilitate smoother traffic flow. New ramps connecting Route 4 North to I-95 and vice-versa are also planned, addressing what has been termed “the missing move.”
Washington Bridge Reconstruction
Significantly, Rhode Island has secured over $220 million in federal funding to aid the reconstruction of the Washington Bridge in Providence, which is currently being constructed at a total estimated cost of $339 million. With the demolition of the old Washington Bridge already in progress, traffic is being routed over the eastbound side. The expected completion date for this project is November 2028, guaranteeing a design life of 100 years and simplified maintenance procedures.
Environmental Concerns
Amid these developments, a concern arose during construction activities concerning tree removal, labeled as “Stumpgate.” A contractor was found to have cut down more trees than necessary, and efforts to replant will take place between 2025 and 2027.
The intersection at RI-10 and RI-12 will be upgraded to an at-grade intersection featuring various safety enhancements and complete streets elements, further contributing to the comprehensive infrastructure improvements ongoing in Rhode Island.
As Rhode Island embarks on this extensive avenue of construction, local residents and travelers are urged to stay informed about traffic alterations and plan their travels accordingly, ensuring safety and efficiency on the road.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
