New Park To Honor EP's Late George Redman - Bike Path Advocate

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) announced in a press release that it has opened the new linear park on the historic Washington Bridge in Providence on weekends beginning in May. "This will allow the public to take advantage of the spring weather and enjoy the new bike path as soon as possible. The park will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from dawn to dusk; this schedule will be in effect until the project is completed and the park is fully opened in late June," said RIDOT.As part of this project, the original bike path - which was closed in 2012 for rehabilitation - has been transformed into an 11-foot bikeway with a separate 7-foot walking path and a center plaza offering scenic overlooks, rest areas, greenery, and information on the history of the bridge and surrounding communities."Building more livable, walkable communities not only promotes healthier lifestyles but also supports our economy," Governor Gina M. Raimondo said. "Accommodating all types of travel will make Rhode Island a more attractive place to live and work. This new park will be a shining example of Rhode Island's continued commitment to building a 21st century transportation system."Congressman Jim Langevin added, "I'm grateful that the DOT and city (Providence) leaders have decided to give cyclists and pedestrians limited access, and I look forward to seeing the finished product of this much-anticipated renovation."This complex project involved not only replacing the original path but also rebuilding portions of the bridge to accommodate a wider path as well as a park on the bridge's center span. Many of the bridge's historical features - such as the multi-arch granite façade and the two operator's houses that once controlled a drawbridge connecting Providence and East Providence - were rehabilitated. The granite pylons and bronze plaques on each end of the bridge were also restored.The $22 million project included the reconstruction of the Warren Avenue Ramp Bridge, which carries traffic from I-195 East to Veterans Memorial Parkway (Exit 4) in East Providence; the new ramp opened to traffic in September 2013.When the project wraps up this summer, the new linear park will be dedicated in honor of the late George Redman, an East Providence resident and bicycle advocate who was instrumental in the creation of the East Bay Bike Path 25 years ago.To sign up for weekly updates on this and other active RIDOT projects around the state, contact dot.customerservice@dot.ri.gov. Visit www.dot.ri.gov or follow RIDOTnews on Facebook or Twitter for timely information on construction projects and traffic conditions.