The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is set to alter the traffic pattern on Route 78 at the Chapman Pond Railroad Bridge in Westerly for ongoing bridge repairs. This adjustment will involve nightly lane closures from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., spanning Tuesday through Saturday nights, December 9-13.
The modifications will occur in stages throughout the week. On December 9, all westbound traffic on Route 78 will shift to the right shoulder. The following day, December 10, the previously closed on-ramp from Route 91 (Oak Street) to Route 78 West will reopen, and eastbound traffic will move left on the bridge deck. By December 12, all eastbound traffic will shift right, with barriers removed by December 13, restoring normal traffic flow by Sunday morning, December 14.
Constructed in 1975, the Chapman Pond Railroad Bridge facilitates approximately 17,900 vehicles daily over Route 91 and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. RIDOT’s current steel and concrete repairs aim to extend its service life until a scheduled replacement in 2032. These interim repairs are budgeted at around $600,000 and are expected to be completed this winter.
All construction projects may experience schedule and scope changes due to various factors such as weather conditions. The interim repairs and eventual replacement of the bridge are supported by RhodeWorks. RIDOT remains dedicated to enhancing Rhode Island’s infrastructure while maintaining environmental considerations. More information can be found at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.
Information from this article can be found here.
