U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has secured $221 million in federal grant funding to revamp the Washington Bridge in Rhode Island. This decision aims to tackle an extensive backlog of grants and focus on essential infrastructure projects. Secretary Duffy said his team identified this backlog from the previous administration, attributing it to DEI and Green New Deal stipulations that hindered infrastructure progress. "Under the Trump Administration, we’ve ripped out this red tape and are getting back to what matters," said Duffy, announcing the significant grant for the Washington Bridge, a key transit route.
Rhode Island political figures expressed gratitude for the funding. Senate Minority Leader Jessica de la Cruz and House Minority Leader Mike Chippendale stated: “Thank you to Secretary Duffy and USDOT for being so responsive to our recent communications with the Administration about the Washington Bridge. Delivering a meaningful solution for the people of Rhode Island on the most serious infrastructure failure our state has experienced is paramount to our work.” They welcomed the grant and stressed the importance of accountability in using federal funds.
The initiative to speed up distribution of funds and address core infrastructure needs is a priority under Duffy’s stewardship at the Department.
The Washington Bridge's westbound section on I-195 has been out of service since December 2023 due to severe structural issues discovered during maintenance works. Problems included broken tie rods and deteriorated concrete girders, necessitating a full replacement of the bridge. Established in 1969, the now-defunct span handled five lanes of traffic and was instrumental in connecting significant highways, facilitating travel between Rhode Island and neighboring states.
