Rhode Island Secures $17 Million Grant for Mount Hope Bridge

News Summary

The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority has received a $17 million federal grant for a de-humidification project aimed at preserving the Mount Hope Bridge. This funding will prevent corrosion of key components, potentially extending the bridge’s life by 50 to 75 years. In addition, RITBA plans to resurface the bridge from August 14 to August 18, 2025. These infrastructure improvements are essential for maintaining safe and efficient transportation for Rhode Island residents.

Rhode Island – The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) has received a significant boost for infrastructure development with a $17 million federal grant designated for a de-humidification project on the Mount Hope Bridge. This funding, provided by the US Department of Transportation, will focus on preserving critical components of the nearly century-old bridge.

The de-humidification initiative is aimed at preventing corrosion of the bridge’s cables and anchors, a crucial measure in extending the bridge’s operational lifespan. RITBA anticipates that the project could potentially extend the lifespan of the Mount Hope Bridge by an impressive 50 to 75 years, safeguarding this key transportation link for future generations.

Lori Caron Silveira, RITBA’s Executive Director, highlighted the project’s significance while expressing gratitude to the federal delegation and the Department of Transportation for their support. The dehumidification process is expected to arrest corrosion of the individual wires in the bridge’s cables, which is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of such a vital conduit.

In addition to the de-humidification project, RITBA has announced a scheduled resurfacing project for the Mount Hope Bridge. This will take place from Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 7 p.m. until Monday, August 18, 2025, at 5 a.m., weather permitting. Should adverse weather conditions occur during this timeframe, the resurfacing work will be postponed to a weekend in September.

The resurfacing process will involve milling the existing road surface and applying an ultra-thin bonded overlay from curb to curb, resulting in a smoother driving surface. The new surface is projected to last for approximately five years before requiring further maintenance.

This upcoming maintenance is part of RITBA’s ongoing capital improvement efforts for the Mount Hope Bridge, which last underwent a total redecking in 1985. As infrastructure needs continue to grow, projects like these are essential for enhancing safety and efficiency for drivers utilizing this critical route.

As part of this resurfacing initiative, RITBA is working closely with local leaders and first responders in Bristol and Portsmouth to ensure that residents are well-informed about the upcoming closure and any necessary detours. Citizens are encouraged to seek alternate routes during the scheduled closure period to minimize inconvenience.

The Mount Hope Bridge serves as a key transportation link, connecting Portsmouth and Bristol across the Mt. Hope Bay. With the ongoing commitment to upgrading and maintaining such infrastructure, RITBA aims to keep the bridge functional and safe for the extensive amount of traffic it accommodates every day.

In conclusion, the federal grant for de-humidification and the planned resurfacing project exemplifies efforts to preserve essential infrastructure, while also addressing the transportation needs of Rhode Island residents. This proactive approach to infrastructure will play a vital role in ensuring the longevity and safety of the Mount Hope Bridge for years to come.

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