The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) announced that it will close the Weekapaug Bridge on Atlantic Avenue in Westerly tomorrow, Tuesday, September 27, 2011. The bridge will remain closed for approximately two months so RIDOT can replace the 75-year-old structure.
Through a $2.2 million contract with Cardi Corporation, RIDOT will use accelerated bridge construction methods, including pre-cast components, to significantly shorten the time to replace the bridge. A similar approach was used last year to rebuild the Round Top Bridge in Burrillville, which was completed in just 41 days.
Using conventional construction methods, the Weekapaug Bridge likely would have been closed for a full year. This would have created adverse traffic impacts to patrons of the many beaches and restaurants along Atlantic Avenue during the summer months.
During the closure period this fall, RIDOT will establish a signed detour using Route 1A (Shore Road), Winnapaug Road and Weekapaug Road. A detour map is available on RIDOT's website at: www.dot.ri.gov/travelri/detourmaps.asp.
The Department may temporarily close the boat channel under the bridge for demolition of the old bridge superstructure. RIDOT will announce the closures when they are scheduled.
While RIDOT estimates the bridge to reopen to traffic later this fall, construction will continue with periodic lane closures possible until final completion in Spring 2012.
Motorists with questions can contact RIDOT's Customer Service office at 401-222-2450 weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional information will be available on RIDOT's website (www.dot.ri.gov) and its social media sites on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace and Blogger.