Washington Bridge Closure Sparks Investigation and Traffic Chaos

After a sudden closure due to critical defects, the Washington Bridge incident has led to a federal investigation and severe traffic disruptions.

A structural engineer's alarm over potential catastrophic defects prompted the abrupt closure of the Washington Bridge's westbound span.
Despite the urgency, there is no evidence of high-level communication within the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) over the critical weekend before the closure.
The closure has caused significant traffic issues, with commute times drastically increasing and alternative routes becoming congested.
A federal investigation has been opened into allegations of false claims for payment on the Washington Bridge, with documents requested going back to January 2015.
RIDOT and external consultants are conducting a forensic analysis to determine the best course of action for the bridge, including the possibility of demolition.