Rhode Island Awards $339 Million Contract for Washington Bridge Reconstruction

News Summary

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee announced that Walsh Construction Company has been awarded a $339 million contract to reconstruct the Washington Bridge. This significant project, aimed at enhancing local transportation, could escalate to $427 million due to contingencies. With a designed lifespan of 100 years, the new bridge is expected to accommodate up to 80,000 vehicles daily. Initial work is set to start in July and completion is targeted for November 2028. Concerns regarding safety and past maintenance practices have underlined the urgency of this reconstruction.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has announced that Walsh Construction Company has been awarded a $339 million contract to rebuild the westbound side of the Washington Bridge. This project, which is critical for local transportation, has the potential to escalate in cost to $427 million if additional incentives and contingencies are taken into account.

Last year, the estimated cost of the bridge reconstruction was projected between $250 million and $300 million. State officials have high regard for Walsh Construction, referring to the company as “one of the nation’s top bridge builders.” The new Washington Bridge is designed to have a lifespan of 100 years and will include significant upgrades to enhance safety during inspections and maintenance.

Work on the project is set to commence this July with initial tasks such as surveying, material ordering, and mobilizing the workforce. The completion of the project is anticipated by November 2028. Governor McKee expressed optimism regarding the development, noting that the new Washington Bridge will facilitate smooth and safe travel for residents.

Infrastructure and Design Goals

The design of the new bridge is projected to accommodate up to 80,000 vehicles daily and aims to ensure long-term safety and functionality over the next century. Peter Alviti, the director of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, highlighted that the project’s objectives are centered on enhancing both the durability and inspection capabilities of the structure.

Current Status of the Old Washington Bridge

The demolition of the existing bridge is currently on track to be completed by the end of this year. Following the initial demolition phase, underwater demolition efforts are scheduled to begin after July 1, specifically targeting segments of the old bridge’s foundation.

Background on Safety Concerns

The Washington Bridge was partially shut down in December 2023 due to heightened safety concerns. An independent review revealed significant structural deficiencies that prompted this immediate action. The closure of the bridge has had substantial repercussions on local traffic patterns and the economy, leading to reports of small business closures and revenue losses in the vicinity.

Rhode Island’s Department of Transportation has faced criticism regarding inadequate maintenance practices that some have suggested may have contributed to the bridge’s deterioration. This scrutiny has coincided with ongoing federal investigations led by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Office of Inspector General from the U.S. Department of Transportation into the potential failures related to the bridge’s infrastructure.

Administrative Oversight

Governor McKee has come under fire for the handling of the bridge crisis and its effects on the residents of Rhode Island. The administration’s response to the bridge’s issues has raised questions about oversight and accountability in maintaining critical infrastructure.

As Rhode Island moves forward with the ambitious Washington Bridge reconstruction project, state officials are focused on ensuring that the new structure will meet the transportation needs of residents while addressing past concerns related to safety and maintenance. The anticipated improvements aim not only to replace an aging infrastructure but also to restore confidence in the state’s ability to manage critical construction projects effectively.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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