The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority has provided updates on several ongoing construction projects across its bridges in Newport County.
“We have a very busy construction season underway,” said Lori Caron Silveira, executive director of the authority. “We are working hard to complete important projects to maintain our bridges. Please help us keep our crews safe by slowing down through construction zones and following signs and instructions.”
On the Mount Hope Bridge, a dehumidification project is ongoing, with daily alternating lane closures continuing from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays. There will be no lane closure on July 3.
“We had hoped to open both lanes of travel by now, but for the safety of the workers and to ensure that the project remains on schedule, we expect to continue alternating lane closures through the end of the 2026 construction season,” Silveira said. She added that the authority understands the work is causing delays and is adding equipment and personnel to better manage the flow of traffic over the bridge.
On the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, contractors are replacing the seven original bridge joints on the west approach spans. That work is being performed Sunday through Thursday from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and will continue through the 2026 construction season. The authority said night work requires extra safety precautions and that the recommended travel speed through the work zone is always 25 mph. Raised structures have been installed to protect the joint work areas while allowing both lanes to remain open outside of work times, marked with signage and orange barrels with flashing lights. Replacement of the eastbound joints will begin once the westbound joints are completed. Contractors have also completed a rehabilitation project on a small bridge adjacent to the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge on its west approach.
On the Newport Pell Bridge, the replacement of two bridge bearings on the east approach will require single-lane closures in both directions during the late summer and early fall. The authority said additional information will be provided when the work is scheduled.
