PROVIDENCE, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) announces the start of a project to replace the City of Providence-owned Hawkins Street Bridge, which carries Hawkins Street over the West River, between Branch Avenue and Corliss Park, in Providence.

The initial phase of the project involves minor tree clearing and utility relocation and will be ongoing through the fall and into early winter. The next phase, starting next spring, will focus on the demolition and reconstruction of the structurally deficient bridge. Final completion is scheduled for Summer 2021, however RIDOT will be working with the contractor to open the bridge sooner.

The bridge has been closed since October 2017 following an inspection finding advanced deterioration on the bridge, which warranted its closure to traffic. It carries approximately 9,600 vehicles per day.

RIDOT and the City of Providence have been working collaboratively on a replacement plan so the work could begin as soon as possible. Funding for the $4.7-million project includes a $1.5-million contribution from the City of Providence toward design work. RIDOT will cover the rest of the project costs.

“RIDOT understands the inconvenience this bridge closure represents and will work with the contractor to expedite the construction and reopen the bridge as quickly as possible,” RIDOT Director Peter Alviti, Jr. said.

“The Hawkins Street Bridge is an important piece of Providence’s infrastructure serving as a link to many of our neighborhoods and businesses,” said Providence Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “From schools to roadwork and sidewalks, my administration has prioritized addressing infrastructure needs city-wide. I’m excited to work with our partners on yet another project that will enhance the quality of life and space for the surrounding communities.”

“I am thrilled that the utility work has begun on the Hawkins Street Bridge as it means that we are another step closer to beginning the real construction work,” said Providence City Council Senior Deputy Majority Leader Nicholas J. Narducci Jr. (Ward 4). “The Hawkins Street Bridge connected our neighborhoods and my constituents, and I look forward to having that connection back — as are the businesses that have been adversely affected by this bridge’s closure. Thank you to RIDOT and the city for keeping this project on the move. I look forward to the next phase of construction and completion.”

All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings and weather.

The replacement of the Hawkins Street Bridge is made possible by RhodeWorks, RIDOT's ongoing commitment to repair structurally deficient bridges and bring Rhode Island's transportation infrastructure into a state of good repair, promote economic development and create jobs. Learn more at ridot.net/RhodeWorks.