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June 16, 2008

Weight limit lowered on Sakonnet River Bridge

Journal file photo
Senior structural engineer Mark J. Stankard, of DMJM Harris, inspects the steel beams of the Sakonnet River Bridge in April of this year. DOT is still working on the design for a new bridge according to officials.

The weight limit for the Sakonnet River Bridge has again been lowered after an inspection showed increased deterioration.

Vehicles weighing more than 18 tons are now prohibited from traveling across the bridge. The previous weight limit was 22 tons.

And vehicles and trailers with more than two axles per unit are also prohibited from crossing the bridge, which connects Tiverton and Portsmouth.

According to the state Department of Transportation, the bridge, built in 1957, supports more than 40,000 vehicles per day.

Years ago, the DOT announced it would begin construction of a new Sakonnet River Bridge by 2005. Then it was December 2006. Last summer, the start-date was moved to January 2008.

In a statement released this morning, the DOT said it plans to begin advertising the replacement project late this summer and open a new bridge by 20011.

Motorists with concerns or questions can contact DOT customer service at 401-222-2450, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson  at 9:35 AM | Permalink

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Genevieve white | June 16, 2008 3:27 PM link

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