The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority is asking drivers to use caution while traveling across the Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge, where contractors are replacing the seven original bridge joints on the westbound spans.
During the hours when crews are working on the joints, traffic will be limited to one lane. When work is not underway, each joint is covered by a raised plate, with both lanes open to traffic. The plates are not flush with the bridge and cause a bump. Signs mark every bump, and drivers are urged to reduce their speed to 25 mph through the work zone.
“During the past few days, crashes and other incidents on the Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge, coupled with lane restrictions, have caused significant traffic,” RITBA Executive Director Lori Caron Silveira said. “We are working with our contractor to adjust the schedule and add additional signage. We recognize that driving through the work zone — and over the plates — is a bumpy ride. We urge drivers to slow down to 25 mph in the work zone to keep everyone safe.”
Work will begin on the eastbound span once the westbound span is completed. Drivers should expect delays on weekdays through the 2026 construction season.
