"Critical failure" closes I-195 west on Washington Bridge in Providence, Rhode Island
PROVIDENCE, RI - Massachusetts drivers traveling towards Rhode Island are being warned to anticipate delays due to the closure of the westbound lanes of I-195 on the Washington Bridge in Providence. It could take months until the bridge is reopened.
RIDOT said the westbound lanes on the bridge were closed Monday due to the "critical failure of some bridge components." The areas needing repair are part of the original Washington Bridge which was built in 1968.
All westbound traffic on I-195 is being diverted to alternate routes.
In the next two to three weeks, RIDOT expects westbound traffic to be moved to two lanes on the eastbound side of the bridge so repairs can begin. Depending on the severity, repairs could take three months or more to complete.
"We are closing the westbound side until we can make it completely safe," RIDOT Director Peter Alviti said.
MassDOT said drivers entering Rhode Island from Massachusetts on I-195, I-95, 1, 6, 44, 152, and 114A will be impacted and should anticipate delays.
Detour routes from RIDOT
Local traffic in East Providence: Take Exit 2 to Broadway. Follow detour signs to the Henderson Bridge and rejoin I-195 West at Gano Street.
Southeast Massachusetts west of Fall River, MA: Take Massachusetts Exit 1 and follow Route 114A. Follow onto Route 114 (Pawtucket Avenue) or Route 1A (Newport Avenue) to I-95. This is the preferred routes for trucks.
Southeast Massachusetts east of Fall River, MA (including traffic coming from Cape Cod and the New Bedford Area): Take Massachusetts Exit 14B to Route 24 North. Follow to I-495 North to I-95.
