Work on Mt. Hope, Sakonnet bridges to cause disruptions

BRISTOL/PORTSMOUTH/TIVERTON — Traffic will be impacted due to construction work on two local bridges starting Monday, March 20.

The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) will begin paint and steel repair work on the Mt. Hope Bridge’s south approach in addition to concrete work on deck walkways. 

This work will result in daily lane closures from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., according to RITBA. 

There will also be some limited night work on the bridge from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., which will necessitate periodic lane closures.

The bike/pedestrian lane on the new Sakonnet River Bridge may experience some periodic closures due to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation’s (RIDOT) work in removing the old Sakonnet River Bridge, which began March 1.

RITBA and RIDOT are working together to coordinate the demolition work and to mitigate traffic impacts for motorists, according to RITBA.

“To efficiently and effectively remove the old bridge, the RIDOT contractor will require access to the new bridge,” RITBA stated in a news release. “This will be limited primarily to use of the new bridge shoulder on Route 24 south.”

The main construction access for the old bridge demolition will be from Route 24 south in Portsmouth just past the new bridge.

“Although the bike path will remain open during the demolition, individuals should proceed with caution as there will be brief periodic closures due to truck crossings,” RITBA stated.

To stay up-to-date and receive the latest on construction activity and real-time traffic, visit RITBA’s traffic site at RITBA.org. The site provides the latest information concerning lane closures, construction activity and traffic delays for the Newport Pell, Jamestown Verrazzano, Mt. Hope and Sakonnet River bridges, in addition to the Route 138 Connector.