Ocean Dr closed due to hurricane repair

Governor Chafee and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) have announced a Newport road repair project to fix the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy.

“We have committed to the citizens of this State to do all we can to quickly repair our roadway infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Sandy,” said Governor Lincoln D. Chafee. "With RIDOT’s help and that of the State’s skilled contractors, we are able to do that sooner than later – and put Rhode Islanders to work."

In order to proceed with the repair plans, a portion of Ocean Drive will be closed for approximately three weeks, effective December 4. These repairs will focus on seawall, sidewalks, curbing and drainage systems.

RIDOT will repair Ocean Drive through a $1.4 million dollar contract with HK&S Construction. A portion of the project's funding will be provided by the quick release emergency relief funds provided by the U.S Department of Transportation and the Federal Government.

“This particular project focuses on repairs to the supporting roadway system, not just the pavement itself,” said RIDOT Director Michael P. Lewis. “We are targeting to return the roadway to the City before the end of the year.”

RIDOT hopes to repair as much of Rhode Island as possible before the winter season.

Two additional repair projects are set to begin soon in Bristol and Jamestown. However, these are tentatively planned to conclude by early next year.