Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) this week started a resurfacing project for 0.5 miles of Taunton Avenue (Route 44) from just east of the Pawtucket Avenue intersection to the Massachusetts state line in East Providence. The $4.8 million project includes stormwater improvements to alleviate chronic flooding problems along this road during heavy rainstorms.
Construction began this week at the Park & Ride on Taunton Avenue, close to the Massachusetts state line. RIDOT will use a portion of the lot for construction of a stormwater bioretention basin that will collect runoff from the road, treating it and allowing it to slowly release into the ground instead of contributing to the flooding of Taunton Avenue. The lot will remain open for RIPTA bus riders and carpoolers through the project and ample spaces will be retained for future commuter use.
Work on the roadway itself will begin in late April/early May and may require weekday lane closures between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. At least one lane in each direction will remain open at all times during daytime work. The project is anticipated to be done by Spring 2021.
In addition to resurfacing and the new stormwater basin, the project includes new drainage structures as well as curbing and repairs as needed.
All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.
The paving of Taunton Avenue is 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/DetourMaps.