The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is reminding motorists that it will permanently close the Pine Street overpass over I-95 on Friday, June 13, 2008. When the closure occurs, motorists can follow detour signs and use the Broad Street overpass to cross over I-95.
RIDOT had planned to close this overpass on June 6, but chose to leave the bridge open another week as construction is not scheduled to begin on the overpass until after June 13. RIDOT’s intention throughout the Iway project is to keep all existing bridges, ramps and roads open as long as possible before construction necessitates their closure.
RIDOT is closing the bridge, and will later demolish the structure, to allow for continuing construction of the Iway project. RIDOT will begin building an extension to the current northbound service road along I-95 North, working in the area of the existing interchange with I-195. Additionally, RIDOT will begin work on a new ramp that will provide access to I-95 North from Point Street.
Given the many changes associated with the Iway, RIDOT encourages motorists to plan ahead as much as possible and carefully observe signage regarding changes. RIDOT will continuously update all information, including maps, on its Web site at www.dot.ri.gov. Additionally, information on changes will be available by calling 511 and listening to the Highway Advisory Radio System on 1630 AM. Motorists may also call RIDOT’s Customer Service office at 401-222-2450 on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After two days, the closure of Exit 20 has had minimal impact on morning commuting traffic. RIDOT urges motorists to continue to follow signed detours to reach various parts of Providence. With no access to Exits 1 and 2 on the old I-195, RIDOT offers the following alternative routes for motorists on I-95 North:
• For the College Hill/Fox Point/Lower East Side areas, motorists can take the Iway (Exit 19) and use the new Iway Exit 2. This exit will provide immediate access to Gano Street via India Street.
• For the Jewelry District and the J. Joseph Garrahy Judicial Complex, motorists can take Exit 18 (Thurbers Avenue) and follow Allens Avenue north.
• For the Downtown area, motorists can remain on I-95 North and take Exit 22A (Downtown/Memorial Boulevard) and proceed straight at the end of the ramp onto Memorial Boulevard.
Contact: Charles St. Martin 401-222-1362 x4007