PROVIDENCE – R.I. Department of Transportation has been awarded a $65 million federal grant to overhaul Route 146, the state’s congressional delegation announced on Tuesday.
The funds come from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America Grant program overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The money will be used to replace three bridges in the Route 146 corridor, as well as reconfigure the interchange at Sayles Hill Road and to repave 8 miles of highway, among other upgrades.
The delegation said that more than 171,000 vehicles travel Route 146 between Worcester, Mass. and Providence daily.
“Route 146 is a vital roadway for our state, and the millions in federal funds awarded to RIDOT will help improve the safety and flow of traffic in this corridor for the residents, commuters and businesses who rely on it,” said Democratic Rep. James R. Langevin. “By making these investments in infrastructure, we’re addressing Rhode Island’s urgent needs and creating important employment opportunities during this trying time.”
The reconfiguration of the interchange at Sayles Hill Road will eliminate a wave at its intersection with Route 99. The intersection was said to have been the site of over 100 accidents per year, on average.
Funds may also be used to install a bus-on-shoulder lane along the southern limits of Route 146 into Providence, for drainage features, median barriers and broadband improvements.