High-speed winds temporarily restrict access to Newport, Jamestown bridges

November 22, 2023 8:46 am

Samantha Latos,

This is a file image of the Claiborne Pell Bridge in Newport (WLNE)

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority on Wednesday temporarily restricted access to the Newport Pell and Jamestown-Verrazzano bridges for certain vehicles amid high-speed winds.

All bridges were back open for normal travel by 11:30 a.m.

The agency said house trailers, recreational vehicles, empty enclosed trailers, or any vehicle that law enforcement believes may not safely cross the bridge would be prohibited.

Those who were denied from crossing were assisted with safely turning around.

Under RITBA protocols, wind restrictions can be implemented when sustained winds exceed 50 miles per hour for a consecutive period of 15 minutes or more.

Commuters can check bridge conditions and closures online.

Wednesday’s wind and rain intercepts with the busiest anticipated Thanksgiving travel day.

The Block Island Ferry cancelled all ferries to due the weather conditions.