New traffic pattern coming to I-95 Providence

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Interstate 95 traffic patterns are set to change after the Providence Downtown exit near the Providence Place Mall.

On Jan. 6, 2024, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation will make the changes as part of the Providence Viaduct Northbound project.

According to RIDOT, the changes will open a new service road separating I-95 north through traffic from on and off-ramp traffic.

These changes will also make the highway safer and will reduce delay, congestion and vehicle emissions.

A central aspect of the project will be the relocation of exit 38 (old exit 23) for Route 146 and State Offices.

Here is a summary of the changes from RIDOT:

• I-95 north through traffic: Use the two left lanes to remain on I-95. These express lanes will extend over the Providence Viaduct with no exits until the Branch Avenue off-ramp (exit 39A).
• I-95 north to Route 146 north: Use the right lane at the newly relocated exit 38. Once on the new service road, both left lanes will lead onto Route 146 north.
• I-95 north to State Offices: Use the right lane at the newly relocated exit 38. Once on the new service road, use the far right lane to take the State Offices exit.
• Route 6/10 Connector and Downtown to I-95 north: Traffic will enter the new service road and should remain in the right lane. Approaching the State Offices exit, follow the signs to I-95 north.
• Route 6/10 Connector and Downtown to Route 146 north: Traffic will enter the new service road and use the two left lanes onto Route 146 north.
• Atwells Ave on-ramp to I-95 north or Route 146 north: Traffic will enter the new service road and should use the two left lanes to access Route 146 north or use the right lane to access I-95 north.