On the cusp of Statehouse debate over trucking tolls to fix bridges, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation has closed the Park Avenue Bridge over Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor in Cranston, effective immediately.
The action came after a DOT outside engineering consultant inspected the bridge and found “significant deterioration in the bridge’s timber deck.’’ The DOT then sent one of its own engineers to inspect the bridge and that probe confirmed the independent analysis.
Motorists traveling on Park Avenue will be directed to detour routes with standard and electronic signs. Police will also assist in directing traffic around the bridge. The bridge will remain open for pedestrians and bike riders.
The Park Avenue bridge was built in 1906 and last rehabilitated in 1991. It is classified as structurally deficient. The bridge was last inspected in September 2014.
