The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) has announced plans to start structural rehabilitation works on Newport Pell Bridge in the US to extend the structure's life. 

RITBA will perform significant rehabilitation works on the roadway deck as part of its ongoing ten-year capital plan. 

The project works will be carried out in multiple phases over a six to eight year period. 

RITBA executive director Buddy Croft said: “This is a monumental project. We have gone to great lengths to maintain and repair the roadway deck on the Newport Pell Bridge, but at this point, the roadway deck needs partial replacement.

“We understand this project will impact motorists, and we are going to do our best to mitigate traffic issues.”

With focus on the bridge’s east approach (Newport side) covering about 2,000ft of the 11,247ft bridge, the first phase of project works will include partial depth hydro-demolition and replacement of the concrete roadway deck from curb to curb.

"When the bridge was constructed in 1969, the deck was expected to last 30 years; however, we have preserved it for nearly 50 years."

During this phase, the existing steel bearings will also be replaced with new and modern elastomeric bearings.

RIBTA engineering director Eric Offenberg said: “Our number one priority here at RITBA is the safety of motorists. It is extremely important that we remain vigilant, maintain, and extend the life of our bridges so the motoring public knows they are safe.

“When the bridge was constructed in 1969, the deck was expected to last 30 years, however, due to constant attention and maintenance, we have preserved it for nearly 50 years.” 

The initial works are slated to begin from 15 May and will continue until the end of June. 

In July and August, work will be performed underneath the bridge. Deck work will start from 19 September and continue until December.