The U.S. government has allocated $125 million to Rhode Island to aid in the replacement of a partially closed highway bridge. The funding comes as a response to the deteriorating condition of the bridge and the need to ensure the safety of drivers and residents in the area.
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation will oversee the project, which involves replacing the bridge that carries Interstate 95 over the Piscataqua River to the northeast of Providence. The bridge has been subject to weight restrictions and lane closures due to its deteriorating state, and the funding will allow for a full replacement to take place.
The replacement project is estimated to cost a total of $70 million, with the federal funding covering a significant portion of the expenses. The rest of the funding will come from the state’s transportation budget, which has been struggling to keep up with the maintenance and repair needs of Rhode Island’s aging infrastructure.
The awarded grant demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to supporting states in addressing critical infrastructure needs, especially in the face of economic challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Rhode Island officials have expressed their gratitude for the funding, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure for the state’s residents and businesses.
The project is expected to begin in the coming months, with a completion timeline of several years. Once completed, the new bridge will provide a vital link for commuters and travelers in Rhode Island, ensuring the continued flow of traffic and commerce in the region.
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