Rhode Island officials announced on Thursday that the westbound span of the Washington Bridge will be rebuilt. Governor Dan McKee was joined by RIDOT Director Peter Alviti at a news conference and outlined the findings of engineering firms that have examined the bridge since its closure on December 11th. McKee said in addition to action, there will be accountability, and hinted at a quote, "day of reckoning," regarding the bridge situation.
“Rhode Islanders deserve answers, accountability, and a plan of action to restore normalcy to their daily lives. That is what we will deliver,” said Governor Dan McKee. “It is very important to me that Rhode Islanders have confidence in the findings and the recommendation for a path forward for the Washington Bridge. That is why I made sure that a third-party expert, unaffiliated with any current construction projects in Rhode Island, was able to oversee and review all the information gathered for this report.”
The initial cost estimate for the demolition and bridge replacement is between $250 million and $300 million. Both the demotion and the design-rebuild will be put out to bid to ensure the best use of taxpayer funds. A new bridge could be completed within 18 to 24 months of a contract award according to initial estimates.
“I am deeply disturbed by the additional structural deficiencies identified by the in-depth review of the bridge,” Governor McKee added. “When we have all the facts, we will hold any responsible parties fully accountable. The day for accountability will come.”
Set to begin this summer, demolition of the bridge will last through March 2025, with the new span opening in 2026. Estimated costs are running between 250 and 300 million dollars.
The Governor did not say where the money will come from but he said that federal monies will be sought.
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