Press Article: Concerns Over Washington Bridge’s Condition Amid Ongoing Repairs
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WJAR) – The Washington Bridge, which opened in 2008, has recently been rated in "fair" condition according to inspection reports obtained by NBC 10. This marks the second consecutive evaluation in the same grade, in the middle of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation’s (RIDOT) three-tiered rating system. RIDOT Director Peter Alviti confirmed that it is not uncommon for a bridge of this age to receive a "fair" rating, citing various factors such as structural complexity and environmental conditions that can affect a bridge’s integrity.
In light of the bridge’s current condition, RIDOT has initiated repair work, including overnight lane closures on I-195 to address deck joints on the bridge’s concrete approach. RIDOT emphasizes that these repairs are part of regular maintenance and do not indicate any immediate structural issues.
Additionally, crews are also conducting electrical work to install a new weight monitoring system, which is currently undergoing calibration. Although NBC 10’s inquiries regarding the data from this monitoring system went unanswered, Alviti stated that the calibration process is proceeding as planned, assuring the public that the necessary precautions are in place before the system becomes fully operational.
With an increase in traffic on the bridge, RIDOT has opted for more frequent inspections, recently conducting assessments twice a year. The most recent inspection report from April confirmed the "fair" rating, while a follow-up inspection has been completed but is yet to be reported to the state.
As traffic continues to flow across the bridge, RIDOT’s commitment to regular maintenance and inspections aims to alleviate public concerns about safety and structural integrity.
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Photo credit www.turnto10.com
