Potholes wreak havoc on RI roadways

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The winter weather is really doing a number on the roadways in the capital city.

If you drive on Westminster Street on the west end of Providence, you'll notice potholes lining the street, making travel treacherous.

Edwin Derose said, "That pothole been here for a long time, they never fix it."

Even a RIPTA bus had a hard time avoiding the cluster of craters Friday afternoon. Drivers say something needs to be done.

"They really need to fix them, this is really bad. I just went in one last night," said Crystal Judd.

We wanted to see for ourselves what it's like to drive over the potholes on Westminster Street.

"I'm turning onto the street right now, and there is a huge set of potholes in front of me," said Eyewitness News Reporter Nneka Nwosu.

Wet weather is to blame for many of the holes. The city highway department began fixing major roads downtown Friday afternoon, but the more rain that falls, the more more cracks and craters they have to fill.

The highway department says they will be filling as many holes as possible on Saturday.

To report a pothole, please call (401) 222-2378. This telephone line is staffed 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.

For pothole claims , please call (401) 734-4817. Timeliness is important - Notice of a pothole claim must be postmarked or received within 7 days of the incident.

Click here if you'd like to contact us about your pothole woes.