Janice R. Andrews
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) opened a third eastbound lane on the Washington Bridge earlier today in an effort to reduce traffic congestion. Following severe delays experienced by commuters during morning rush hour, the decision was made.
At first, drivers had to wait a long time because the lane wasn’t working when the day began. Via social media, RIDOT warned commuters and encouraged them to adjust their travel schedules. Nevertheless, the agency was able to open the lane close to the appointed hour.
In the upcoming weeks, modifications to the westbound lanes are also anticipated. Now classified as an exit-only lane, the right lane will also function as a throughway. RIDOT had to shorten the lanes to make room for the extra lane, which resulted in a 40 mph speed limit and the requirement that trucks stay in the right lane.
After today’s events, work will concentrate on moving barriers to make room for the third westbound lane; completion is anticipated on April 22. Safety is still the top priority, as RIDOT Director Peter Alviti emphasizes, with state police and tow vehicles on standby 24 hours a day to respond quickly to any occurrences.
Though specifics are still unknown, Governor Dan McKee alluded to possible severe actions to address the recent spike in bridge collisions.
In the meantime, there was still heavy traffic this morning on both sides of I-195. According to sources, delays on I-95 from Route 10 to the Washington Bridge eastbound might reach 33 minutes.
Keep checking back for more details on this developing scenario.
