Stage one of Newport Pell Bridge deck repair finishes ahead of schedule

JAMESTOWN – Stage one of the Newport Pell Bridge deck repair project finished weeks ahead of schedule, the R.I. Turnpike and Bridge Authority announced Wednesday.

As of Friday morning, two-lane traffic will resume in both directions on the bridge.

“I would to thank commuters for their patience and understanding while this project was underway,” said Buddy Croft, RITBA executive director. “I would also like to thank everyone involved in this significant project, including turnpike employees and Aetna contractors as well as local police and fire, and the State Police. … Completing the project ahead of schedule is immensely appreciated.”

RITBA will continue ongoing maintenance to other areas of the bridge that will require temporary daily lane closure between the hours of 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. These lane closures are standard with routine maintenance and don’t affect rush hour traffic.

- Advertisement -

In the first stage of the project, a contractor removed the concrete roadway deck down to the rebar and poured fresh concrete.

A cable inspection is anticipated for the 2018 spring and summer to determine areas of the bridge that need to be focused on. The next stage of the decking project will then be planned and put out to bid for a contract.

Stage two of the deck project is expected to begin in Spring 2019.

Chris Bergenheim is the PBN web editor.