New date set for traffic changes on Interstate 95 in Providence

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Transportation said traffic changes on Interstate 95 in Providence will start in early January.

The Providence Viaduct will have a new traffic pattern on Saturday, Jan. 6. The goal of the project is to solve the traffic buildups around the Providence Place Mall.

The main change is that exit 38, for State Offices and 146, will be moved about a mile further south, meaning northbound drivers will have to take that exit sooner.

Drivers going northbound and don’t need to take an exit in the mall area can just keep driving in the left two lanes.

Drivers who want to get to 146 north or the State Offices exit can take the new exit 38, then go left for 146 off the exit and right for State Offices.

Those using the new service road will be drivers looking to exit toward the 6/10 Connector and the Atwells Avenue on-ramp.

RIDOT urged divers not to suddenly change lanes if they miss an exit, as it can cause a crash.

Drivers who miss their exit can take the Branch Avenue exit, which leads to 146 and State Offices.

The project was pushed back several times, originally scheduled for Dec. 1.

Officials then postponed the traffic changes until after the hectic holiday travel and shopping season.