PROVIDENCE, RI — Walsh Construction is marking a significant step forward on the Washington Bridge replacement project, as crews begin in-water construction that will serve as the foundation for the new structure.
“Right now, across the country, communities are replacing and modernizing aging infrastructure that was built generations ago to meet the evolving traffic and commerce needs of future generations,” said Chuck Parish, Vice President, New England Transportation and Water, Walsh Construction. “[This milestone] marks a meaningful step forward for Rhode Island and for everyone who relies on this corridor.”
Construction crews have begun installing the first of 32 drilled shafts that will form the bridge’s foundation. Each shaft will extend approximately 130 feet to bedrock, creating the support system for the bridge’s piers and abutments.
The transition into in-water construction follows extensive preparation, including design, permitting, site surveys, material fabrication, and equipment mobilization. Earlier this year, crews established construction platforms in the river to support foundation work.
Walsh Construction is leading the design and construction of the new westbound Washington Bridge. The replacement bridge will increase capacity from four travel lanes to five and will include a new Gano Street on-ramp and Waterfront Drive off-ramp to improve traffic flow. The bridge is being designed with a 100-year service life and features intended to support easier inspection and maintenance.
Construction methods for the current phase include the use of vibratory hammers, which generate less noise than traditional pile driving. Vibration and noise monitoring systems will be in place throughout the work.
Following completion of the foundation phase, crews will move on to constructing bridge piers and the substructure that will support the bridge deck. Fabrication of structural steel for the superstructure is already underway at facilities in Wisconsin, with deliveries expected to Rhode Island later this year.
In-Water Construction Begins on New Washington Bridge
