‘A good down payment;’ officials react to federal grant for Washington Bridge replacement

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island will receive a $125.4 million mega grant toward replacing the westbound side of the Washington Bridge.

“This ‘mega grant’ of $125 million is a good down payment,” Senator Jack Reed said. “At this moment $125 million takes a real relief off the shoulders of the state and anything we can do to help, we’re going to do.”

The “mega grant,” also known as the National Infrastructure Project Assistance Program, was being advocated for by Gov. McKee in D.C.

McKee said he was looking for $200 million, but added it will do “for now.”

“First of all, we have planned cash into the budget,” McKee said. “This is over and above what that need is. We will continue to work with the White House.”

The current estimate for the cost of the bridge’s demolition stands at $58.2 million and the replacement at $368.3 million.

“This is a big win, we have a lot of balls in the air, there’s a lot of moving parts to this project,” McKee said. “Everyone is important and this just moves the project further along, it’s helpful for us on the finance piece.”

Some Rhode Islanders said they are happy to see progress, but are still frustrated with the bridge.

“Because of the bridge closing I had to quit my job,” Providence resident Juan Figueroa. “I used to work two jobs; I only work one now. I did have to quit that job because of the long drive.”

Officials said work will continue on the bridge in certain areas that do not impact the evidence the legal team needs.