Travel lanes on I-95 South at Exit 33B in Cranston, Rhode Island, have temporarily reopened after several hours of closure on Tuesday. The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) shut down the lanes to inspect a bridge following a crash in the area. Drivers should expect further closures overnight for additional inspections.
Key Takeaways
- I-95 South lanes at Exit 33B in Cranston reopened temporarily.
- RIDOT closed lanes for bridge inspection after a crash.
- Further closures are scheduled from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for more inspections.
- Traffic cameras showed wooden planks blocking the road after the incident.
- State Police and fire crews were on site to manage the situation.
Initial Closure and Emergency Response
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation first alerted the public to the blocked travel lanes on Tuesday afternoon. A social media post from RIDOT at 2:25 p.m. confirmed the closure. Motorists were advised to seek alternative routes to avoid the affected area.
The closure continued for approximately two hours. During this time, traffic cameras in the vicinity showed a significant obstruction on the roadway. What appeared to be wooden planks were visible, suggesting they had fallen from a truck.
"Crews were inspecting a bridge in the area following a crash," RIDOT stated, explaining the reason for the initial closures and the need for thorough safety checks.
Rhode Island State Police responded to the scene promptly. Fire crews also arrived to assist with clearing the highway. Their combined efforts focused on ensuring public safety and restoring traffic flow as quickly as possible.
Incident Timeline
- 2:25 p.m. Tuesday: RIDOT announces I-95 South lane closures.
- Approximately 4:25 p.m. Tuesday: Lanes remain closed, crews working on site.
- Late Tuesday afternoon: Travel lanes temporarily reopen.
- 8:00 p.m. Tuesday - 5:00 a.m. Wednesday: Scheduled overnight closure for further inspections.
Bridge Inspection and Road Safety Concerns
The primary reason for the extended lane closures was the need for bridge inspection. Crashes, especially those involving debris like wooden planks, can compromise the structural integrity of bridges. RIDOT protocols require immediate assessment to prevent potential hazards.
Inspectors examine the bridge for any signs of damage, including cracks, shifts, or weakened components. This process is crucial for ensuring the safety of thousands of commuters who use the highway daily. The department prioritizes public safety above all else.
According to transportation officials, the initial inspection determined that a temporary reopening was safe. However, the comprehensive nature of bridge safety checks often requires more time and specific conditions, such as reduced traffic during overnight hours.
Importance of Bridge Safety
Bridge safety inspections are a critical part of infrastructure maintenance. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) mandates regular inspections for all bridges on public roads. These inspections help identify structural deficiencies, corrosion, and damage from incidents like vehicle collisions. Timely repairs and maintenance prevent catastrophic failures and ensure the longevity of vital transportation links.
Overnight Closures for Further Assessment
While the lanes have reopened for now, drivers should prepare for additional disruptions. RIDOT confirmed that the lanes will close again from 8 p.m. on Tuesday until 5 a.m. on Wednesday. This overnight period allows crews to conduct more detailed inspections and any necessary immediate repairs without impacting peak traffic hours.
The decision to conduct inspections during off-peak hours minimizes inconvenience for commuters. However, drivers planning to travel through the Cranston area during these times should still seek alternative routes or expect delays. Real-time traffic updates are available through local news channels and transportation apps.
RIDOT advises the public to stay informed about road conditions. Downloading local news and weather apps, such as the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps, can provide breaking news and alert notifications regarding highway closures and traffic impacts.
Impact on Local Commuters and Future Outlook
The incident on I-95 South highlights the constant need for vigilance in maintaining road infrastructure. Even minor incidents can lead to significant traffic delays and require extensive safety checks. Local commuters frequently rely on I-95 as a main artery for travel across Rhode Island.
The temporary closure caused immediate traffic backups. However, the quick response from emergency services and transportation officials helped manage the situation. The scheduled overnight work aims to fully address any bridge concerns, ensuring the highway's long-term safety.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation. They will provide updates as the overnight inspections proceed and once the bridge is fully cleared for normal operations. Drivers are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly and drive with caution in construction zones.
