Heavy traffic ensues following Washington Bridge lane changes

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Wednesday saw yet another traffic change on the Washington Bridge, as RIDOT added a third lane to I-195 East.

The lanes were restriped overnight, meaning commuters heading towards Massachusetts have to drive in thinner lanes.

The decision was intended to alleviate traffic, but the results so far have proved quite the opposite.

Traffic bottlenecked during rush hour at the junction where traffic from I-95 North and South merges onto I-195 East.

Vehicles merging onto I-195 from South Water Street further added to the logjam as drivers traversed the tumultuous bridge alignment.

Drivers saw delays in the morning as well after the crossover point was moved, causing traffic to back up on some side streets.

The ongoing construction on the bridge has lowered the speed limit to 40 mph.

On I-195 East, officials say trucks must make their way to the far right lane, as it is slightly wider.

Crews are expected to have three lanes of traffic in both directions by April 22.