New Traffic Pattern ComesTo Route 138 In North Kingstown For Bridge Replacement Project

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) shifted the traffic pattern Sunday on Route 138 in North Kingstown for the next phase of the Tower Hill Road Bridge replacement project.

State officials said the eastbound travel lanes on Route 138 shifted left, creating new work zones in the shoulders. RIDOT plans to move the lanes on Route 138 westbound on Friday night.

During this phase of work, RIDOT officials said they will maintain one lane under the bridge in each direction, and access will be maintained to all on- and off-ramps. The traffic pattern shift is expected to be in place for about three months.

The roadwork is part of RIDOT's $35.8 million project to replace the 55-year-old structurally deficient bridge. State officials said crews will use accelerated bridge construction methods to build the new bridge, assembling new bridge decks in the vicinity of the old bridge. At a future date, RIDOT will move them into position using self-propelled module transport units. RIDOT officials said they have used this method successfully several times to rapidly replace bridges with as little disruption to motorists as possible.

The project also includes resurfacing 6.5 miles of Route 1 from the Route 4 split in North Kingstown to the Oliver Stedman Government Center in South Kingstown. Additionally, the current wheelchair ramps at the Bridgetown Road, Mooresfield Road intersection will be upgraded with ADA-compliant ones, and stormwater treatment enhancements will be implemented, RIDOT officials said.

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