The westbound side of the Washington Bridge may need to be demolished and replaced, according to the head of Rhode Island's Department of Transportation.
RIDOT Director Peter Alviti said on Monday that engineers are still making a close study of the bridge's structure.
The span, which carries I-195 between East Providence and Providence was shut down in December after structural deficiencies were detected.
The extent of these must be determined, Alviti says-courses of action include major repairs, a partial reconstruction, or a full rebuild.
The eastbound side is a separate structure and is currently handling two-way traffic to help ease congestion.
(Photo Provided by RI Department of Transportation)