Allens Avenue is undergoing essential repairs to the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier Street Gates, impacting traffic flow.
Providence is set to experience lane closures on Allens Avenue from May 12 to June 13 as necessary repairs are made to the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier Street Gates. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction, with detours in effect during the weekends. These repairs are crucial for enhancing flood protection measures ahead of a potentially severe hurricane season, according to NOAA forecasts indicating 17 to 25 named storms this year.
Providence will experience lane closures on Allens Avenue starting May 12 through June 13 as Mayor Brett Smiley announced necessary repairs to the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier Street Gates. The repairs aim to enhance flood protection measures in preparation for the active hurricane season anticipated this year.
During the closure period, traffic on Allens Avenue will be limited to one lane in each direction adjacent to the gates. The lane restrictions will be in effect from Monday to Friday, and there could also be additional detours during the weekends from May 27 to June 6. To facilitate the traffic flow, northbound vehicles will be redirected to Blackstone Street, then Eddy Street, before rejoining Allens Avenue. Likewise, southbound traffic will follow a detour through Eddy Street to Blackstone Street before returning to the main route.
The urgency of these repairs comes amid forecasts by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which predicts a higher-than-normal hurricane season, estimating between 17 to 25 named storms. Providence, which has not faced a direct hurricane impact since Hurricane Carol in 1954, seeks to bolster its defenses against potential storm surges that climate experts suggest could be worsening due to climate change.
The Fox Point Hurricane Barrier has been pivotal in safeguarding downtown Providence, especially during Hurricane Bob in 1991, which avoided major flooding in the downtown area thanks to the barrier’s effectiveness. It is engineered to withstand flood surges of up to 20.5 feet, acting as a crucial line of defense against extreme weather events.
The current repair work is part of a broader $3 million project in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, focused on the hurricane barrier’s street gates. Authorities also plan for more comprehensive repairs scheduled for the upcoming Fall 2024 and Spring 2025, signaling a commitment to strengthening the city’s flood defenses amidst increasing climate-related challenges.
In recent years, Providence has experienced significant impacts on its infrastructure due to extreme weather events and flooding, attributed to climate change. In response to these pressing issues, the Providence Emergency Management Agency is developing a Hazard Mitigation Plan aimed at improving the city’s resilience against potential disasters.
Additionally, a dedicated sewer team has been established to address flooding issues that arise from blocked drainage systems, emphasizing the need for proactive maintenance to prevent future incidents. Environmental advocates within the city are also calling for more tree planting initiatives, recognizing urban greenery’s vital role in reducing stormwater pollution and enhancing flood mitigation efforts. Currently, approximately 27% of Providence is covered by trees, highlighting the potential for increased urban forestry to contribute to better flood management.
As preparations continue, residents of Providence are encouraged to remain informed about the ongoing repairs and potential detours to minimize disruptions during the construction period. The city’s efforts underscore a commitment to enhancing safety and infrastructure resilience in light of evolving climate threats.
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