The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) announced today that it will be restriping travel lanes on I-95 North in Warwick at Exit 8 to shift all lanes slightly to the left. Motorists can expect various lane closures beginning tonight, Friday, August 29, 2008 at 11 p.m. in order for RIDOT to set up the lane shift. All lanes should reopen by 10 a.m. Saturday.
RIDOT recently discovered damage to the girders that was caused when the bridge was apparently struck by a large vehicle passing underneath it on Route 2 in Warwick.
The lane shift will reduce loading on the bridge while RIDOT evaluates the damage and determines the appropriate course of action to repair it. There is no precise timetable for this repair and motorists can expect the lane shift to remain in place for several weeks.
All travel lanes will be maintained, but lanes will be narrowed and shoulders will be closed. Additionally, the deceleration lane for Exit 8B will be reduced in length. RIDOT urges motorists to reduce speed and exercise caution when driving on this section of I-95.
The lane shift affects I-95 North only.
Note: Anyone with information pertaining to the crash that caused this damage is urged to contact the R.I. State Police at 401-444-1000.
Contact: Charles St. Martin 222-1362, Ext. 4007