Preparatory work has now started on the Providence Viaduct replacement project in Rhode Island in the US. Building the replacement for the 400m structure is expected to cost US$265 million.
The full construction operation will commence in the second quarter of 2021, with completion expected by the third quarter of 2025. The project is being managed by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT). According to RIDOT, the project is now a priority as the existing link is one of the busiest highway bridges on the East Coast of the US and is struggling to cope with the traffic volume it carries.
The majority of the funding for the project, $200 million, will be from a state loan with a US Federal grant of $60 million topping up the finance package required. In addition to the main bridge section being replaced, the project will include improvements to a further 11 bridges and a new ramp and collector lane system to upgrade the links with the 6/10 Connector, Route 146, and the State Offices exit.