Jacobs to Lead Design for Critical Bridge Project In Rhode Island, US

Jacobs was selected by Aetna Bridge Company (Aetna) as the prime designer for demolishing the westbound span of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation’s (RIDOT) Washington Bridge. The project is critical to reconnecting Providence and East Providence on I-195, a route that previously carried nearly 100,000 vehicles daily before the closure of the westbound lane.

As lead designer, Jacobs will develop a phased demolition plan and implement an expedited scheduling strategy to reduce commuter disruption and minimize risk. Dismantling the westbound span in sections will also help protect the environment, including preventing debris from entering the Seekonk River.

“Rapidly restoring the vital connection between Rhode Island’s East Bay area and the capital city is paramount,” says Jacobs Executive Vice President Katus Watson. “Our integrated schedule and collaborative approach with Aetna, RIDOT and other stakeholders will enable us to meet project milestones quickly and create a safer, more connected experience for the community and traveling public.”

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation closed the westbound side of the Washington Bridge after identifying a critical failure in several structural components. The affected sections were part of the original Washington Bridge, built in 1968.

The project remains on schedule, with demolition expected to be completed by December of this year.