Richmond rest stop reopened

By: The Associated Press

news@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) says it reopened the truck rest area on Interstate 95 between Exits 2 and 3 in Richmond on Friday, Sept. 2nd, 2016.             

After being closed in 2011, State lawmakers from the area pushed for re-opening the rest stop and welcome center.          

Authorities at RIDOT say they have restriped the parking lots, repaired guardrails, installed new signs, activated and repaired the overhead lighting system, and cleaned the grounds.            

The opening was planned for mid-September, but the work was completed early.            

Work is continuing at the rest stop for the interior spaces, including restrooms.

According to RIDOT, the restrooms can reopen by the end of the month, but in the meantime, there are portable restrooms available.            

RIDOT says the stop provides additional safe parking for truck drivers when they rest between shifts.

© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2016