First phase of DOT bridge project to begin

PROVIDENCE – The R.I. Department of Transportation this week expects to begin the final work needed to open the first span of the new Pawtucket River Bridge to traffic on Interstate 95 North.
DOT was scheduled to close I-95 North Exit 28 (School Street) for approximately two weeks, beginning on April 9. The closure is necessary to allow the department to complete construction in the area of the existing School Street off-ramp that cannot be done while it is open to traffic.
DOT said that during the exit closure, motorists should use Exit 27 (downtown) or Exit 29 (Broadway) to reach their destinations. Those traveling to Memorial Hospital should use Exit 27. Those driving to McCoy Stadium for a Pawtucket Red Sox game can use either Exit 27 or Exit 29.
DOT is coordinating with both organizations to ensure adequate signage and traffic-control measures are in place to help people navigate the detour routes with minimal delay.
The project will allow the department to lift the 18-ton weight limit that has required trucks and other large vehicles on I-95 North to use local detours or longer highway detours. &#8226