The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) today hosted a dedication ceremony to mark the completion of the Bridgegate Square project in New Shoreham, on Block Island. The $2.4 million project involved a complete reconstruction of one of the Island’s busiest intersections in the Old Harbor district, where most ferries land.
RIDOT also rebuilt many sidewalks along the waterfront, including making numerous improvements to bring the sidewalks in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. In total, 10,000 linear feet of sidewalk was rebuilt.
“The Department and the Town of New Shoreham have been working together on this project for many years,” RIDOT Director Michael Lewis said. “It is with great satisfaction that we stand here today to mark the completion of this important project for residents and visitors of Block Island.”
The focal point of the project was the reconstruction of Bridgegate Square, where Dodge Street, Old Town Road, Ocean Avenue and Corn Neck Road meet. Additionally, RIDOT rebuilt sidewalks along both sides of Dodge Street and Water Street and along portions of Ocean Avenue, Chapel Street and High Street.
“The Island is delighted that our front street and major pedestrian areas have all been improved, along with the creation of handicapped access for our visitors,” New Shoreham Town Manager Nancy Dodge said. “The reconstruction of Bridgegate Square and all the sidewalk improvements was a most welcomed project for the Island and to see it done well and in such a timely manner as to be ready for our summer season was a happy surprise.”
Contact: Charles St. Martin 401-222-1362 x4007