Traffic disruption impacts family holiday plans

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — Family outings this holiday season are the latest of things disrupted by the Washington Bridge closure.

According to the Chief Operating Officer of the RI Hospitality Association, a high volume of cancellations following the westbound closure of the Washington Bridge this week are affecting their popular holiday events.

RIHA reported that 73% of respondents witnessed cancellations since Monday’s announcement of the bridge closure.

RIHA said in the report, “This closure’s timing, coinciding with the holiday season, exacerbates the strain on businesses that heavily rely on seasonal festivities for substantial revenue.”

The organization said there have been “severe disruptions” impacting large holiday parties and reservations.

One member saw over 100 cancellations within 36 hours. Some of them went as far out as two weeks in advance.

The report included that 93% of respondents saw a decline in revenue, which they claimed to be directly connected to the bridge closure.

The cancellations have already caused businesses to have to close early due to staffing issues.