RIDOT says trees wrongfully cut down in Providence will be replanted

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Transportation said the trees that were wrongfully cut down near Interstate 95 in March will be replanted.

On March 20, RIDOT said that a contractor working on the I-95 15 Project cut down a grove of trees in Providence without permission.

On Tuesday, RIDOT said some of the trees will be replanted this year, with the final landscaping of the area to be installed when the construction of the bridge is finalized in 2027.

The project aims to reduce the Route 10 bridge deck area over Elmwood Avenue by about 40%, and “eliminate large areas of impermeable surface,” which RIDOT said will create more greenspace and improve stormwater treatment.

RIDOT added that the project will include “major enhancements for the public and environment,” including a bike path between Park Avenue and Elmwood Avenue.