Sandy Bottom Bridge In Convetry Reopens To 2-Way Traffic

COVENTRY, RI — Sandy Bottom Bridge in Coventry reopened to two-way traffic Monday, a spokesperson for the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) said.

The reopening removes a temporary traffic signal at the bridge that had been in place since May 2020.

RIDOT is replacing the 90-year-old, structurally deficient bridge, which carries 16,000 vehicles per day on Route 33 over the Pawtuxet River. Transportation officials said the $8.8 million project is being done in phases to keep traffic flowing and maintain access to all businesses on Sandy Bottom Road.

This initial construction phase replaced the southbound side of the bridge, and now, it's wide enough for two-way traffic.

With traffic now shifted off the northbound portion, RIDOT can start demolition and replacement. Officials said that work will continue through the 2022 construction season.

Transportation officials estimate the bridge will be finished in fall 2023 with ADA-compliant sidewalks on each side, as well as improved drainage and stormwater management. All construction is weather dependent.