RIDOT is scheduled to close South Water Street in Providence at the old I-195 overpass on May 7-8 and May 14-15, 2011. This section of South Water Street, from James Street to Point Street, must be closed to allow for safe demolition of the old highway bridge, part of a $6.8 million Iway demolition contract.

RIDOT intends to close the bridge at 6 a.m. on Saturday, May 7, and reopen the road before midnight on on Sunday, May 8. The current schedule calls for this road to be closed again for the same hours the following weekend, May 14-15, 2011. All schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change.

The road will be closed to vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians, and will allow RIDOT to demolish the bridge in a quick and safe manner. The closure is the latest in a series of demolitions scheduled to take place this year in Providence. The Department anticipates the entire highway demolition project to conclude in late summer.

RIDOT has established detour routes for both vehicles and pedestrians for this closure. Access to local businesses will be maintained.

More information and maps on RIDOT’s website.