The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has announced that the William C. O’Neill (South County) Bike Path will be expanded. Starting Monday, August 2, 2010 crews will begin work on the next segment of the path which currently covers 5.6 miles between the Kingston Railroad Station and Route 108. The new segment, at just under one mile, will continue from Route 108 in South Kingstown, along MacArthur Boulevard and branch off and follow the old Pier Railroad to Mumford Road in Narragansett.
“We are pleased to provide a vital connection to both sides of Route 1 as we expand this path from South Kingstown to Narragansett,” said RIDOT Director Michael P. Lewis. “Not only will the path highlight the scenic beauty of the area, but it will also enhance the quality of life for its users while demonstrating the State’s commitment to providing alternate transportation options.”
Crews from J.H. Lynch & Sons are scheduled to work weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Their preliminary activities, which should have minimal impact to traffic, will include off-road surveying, clearing, excavation, drainage work and grading. A base course of pavement is scheduled to be placed this Fall, with a surface course to be applied next Spring. Through a $760,000 investment, the path is currently slated for completion in June 2011.