Electrical work to begin on Washington Bridge related to weight monitoring system

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Work has begun on the Washington Bridge in installing a new weigh-in-motion system.

According to a representative, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation has hired Kistler Group to install a new safety feature that will use multiple communications channels to notify RIDOT in real time if any issues are detected in the bridge.

A RIDOT representative said the purchase should “provide peace of mind to anyone who has concerns about the increase in traffic now that there are six active lanes on the bridge.”

RIDOT said the cost is $2.7 million, and the work will be completed by the end of the month.

Lane closures will most likely be in place during the evening and overnight hours when traffic volumes are low.

Demolition on the westbound side of the Washington Bridge is expected to start this month.