Lane splits go into effect starting tomorrow for bridge replacement
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is reminding motorists about a new traffic pattern scheduled to begin tomorrow, Saturday, June 30 at Exit 19 on I-95 North and Sunday, July 1 after Exit 19 on I-95 South in Providence. Barriers on both sides of the highway will create lanes splits with two lanes on the left and one lane on the right. This configuration will be in place for about three months for bridge replacement.
All lanes will go through but large trucks must use the right lane. Other vehicles that plan to take Exit 19 or Exit 20 off of I-95 North should stay in the right lane. Motorists are asked to stay in their lane and not change lanes for safety reasons.
This traffic pattern change is part of the replacement of the structurally deficient Blackstone Street Bridge. All exits and on-ramps will remain open.
Traffic delays are likely and motorists should seek alternate routes. All schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change.
During late evening and overnight hours when traffic volumes are at their lowest, RIDOT may close lanes in both directions. No lane closures will occur before 10 p.m.
The bridge work is part of the $20.7 million I-195 Corridor Bridges project, which includes work on five structurally deficient bridges.
Blackstone Street itself, between Allens Avenue and Eddy Street, will remain closed until late fall. There will be one more traffic pattern change in late summer/early fall when RIDOT shifts lanes to the left and finishes the final portion of the bridge.
The I-195 Corridor Bridges Project was made possible by RhodeWorks, RIDOT's ongoing commitment to repair structurally deficient bridges and bring Rhode Island's transportation infrastructure into a state of good repair, promote economic development, and create jobs. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.
