The Rhode Island Department of Transportation will now be required to provide monthly updates on the status of the Washington Bridge to state lawmakers and the governor’s office under legislation approved Thursday by the Rhode Island House and Senate.
The new law is aimed at keeping the public informed as it deals with the lengthy bridge closure, which has caused major disruptions to traffic and has damaged businesses.
“This legislation ensures that everyone impacted by this situation — in the East Bay and across Rhode Island — receives timely, thorough information about the status of the bridge, the plans for its repair and replacement, the timeline involved and the steps being taken to alleviate traffic while work continues,” said Sen. Valarie Lawson, D-East Providence, a co-sponsor of the measure with Rep. Katherine Kazarian, D-East Providence.
“These reports will not only inform the public but also provide necessary information for lawmakers and government officials to determine how best to provide relief to residents who have experienced such tremendous disruption to their lives and livelihoods, from improving temporary traffic patterns to supporting local businesses.”
The first report detailing the status of the bridge is due to be submitted within 30 days of the legislation being signed into law. It will include an updated timeline for repairs and replacement, data on traffic patterns, including delays, accidents and vehicle breakdowns, and an overview of the health effects on residents near the Washington Bridge.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.