JAMESTOWN – The first phase of the Newport Pell Bridge deck repair project finished two days ahead of schedule, the R.I. Turnpike and Bridge Authority announced on Wednesday, ending the permanent single-lane travel restrictions in both directions on the bridge.
RITBA announced that during the second phase of construction, which will take place during July and August, there will be no permanent lane closures, but there will be periodic lane closures at night and during non-rush hours.
However, vehicles with a gross weight of 80,000 pounds or more will be prohibited from crossing the bridge during these months.
Single-lane closures in both directions will resume on Sept. 19 through December.
The rehabilitation of the bridge will happen in in multiple phases and is expected to occur over a six- to eight-year period.
Chris Bergenheim is the PBN web editor.
