NEW: Work Starts on Former 195 Land
Monday, April 08, 2013
Governor Lincoln D. Chafee, members of Rhode Island's Congressional Delegation, General Assembly members, state and City of Providence officials, and private sector leaders broke ground today on the next step in the I-195 corridor development project. Infrastructure work has now begun in the footprint of the former I-195 to rebuild the surrounding city streets.
RIDOT began the demolition of the old highway in 2010, when it started removing more than 3,500 feet of the old highway that was built in the late 1950s and officially closed in late 2009. Another 1,500 feet of old highway was taken down through other contracts associated with the I-195 relocation.
"The work taking place now is a fundamental step toward the responsible, job-generating development of this valuable land, which holds a tremendous potential for economic development here in the capital city," Governor Chafee said. "By upgrading our infrastructure around these properties, we can attract leaders in high-growth industries to create good jobs here in Rhode Island."
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTWork will begin with underground utilities, and then move on to the streets as spring and summer progress, with the goal of creating a more efficient configuration for all modes of transportation, from cars to bikes to pedestrians. Final completion is anticipated in 2014. The $13 million contract with the Cardi Corporation will focus on roadways to the west of the Providence River.
"Today marks a significant step forward in the I-195 Commission's efforts to realize the highest and best use of these parcels of land," said Chairman Colin P. Kane. "The groundbreaking represents a nearly $50 million investment by the federal government, state, City government and the utility providers to truly create a dynamic Knowledge District reconnected by new city streets, sidewalks, enhanced infrastructure, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and public parks. All great places are built on strong foundations, and today kicks off the beginning of this foundation. The Commission, working with its partners in the state and City of Providence, together offer a platform for job creation and a flywheel of economic development."
"We ask that the residents bear with us and be patient while we complete this important work," Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Michael P. Lewis said. "The result will be an alignment that will better support the city with improved access to the new highway and the neighborhoods nearby."
The relocation of I-195 opens up roughly 35 acres of land, with 20 acres set for new businesses along the waterfront and the remainder for roads, parks, and public spaces.
"The I-195 land represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape Providence's landscape and develop our city's knowledge district into a regional hub of academic, entrepreneurial and research activity. Today we celebrate as work begins to put shovels in the ground, create jobs and grow Rhode Island's economy," said Providence Mayor Angel Taveras.
The next contract, which will reconstruct roads east of the Providence River in the area of the old highway corridor, is expected to begin later this summer. That work will focus on building new streets and repairing old ones, including important thoroughfares such as Wickenden Street, South Main Street, and South Water Street. Final work on the second contract will extend into 2015.
Motorists with questions can contact RIDOT's Customer Service office at 401-222-2450 weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional information can be found on RIDOT's social media sites Twitter and Facebook.
Related Articles
- Costantino Releases Plan for I-195 Corridor
- Civic Groups to Host Forum on I-195 Plan
- Campaign Donors Fill 195 Commission
- NEW: Chafee Nominates 1-195 Commission Members
- NEW: Senate Confirms 195 Commission
- Taveras Appoints Adviser for I-195 Redevelopment
- What Should Be Done with Old I-195 Land?
- Land Battle: What Next For 195 Development
