Watch Now: Officials update Chamber members on Washington Bridge closure
GPCC
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, Rhode Island Transportation Director Peter Alviti and state Commerce Secretary Elizabeth Tanner spoke with Chamber President Laurie White and more than 500 business leaders on a Zoom call this afternoon about the emergency closure of the Washington Bridge on I-195 and what that means for businesses, employees, residents and visitors in the greater Providence area.
The officials discussed current detours and traffic patterns, elements of the temporary fix which should be completed within two weeks and the three-month timeline for a permanent solution to the current safety issues which have forced the bridge closure.
Other priorities covered on the call included: expedited federal assistance, plans for the continuity of emergency services operations, impacts on schools, some things that employers can do to keep their workforce updated on the situation, maintaining flexible work schedules when possible and allowing those who are able to work from home to do so as needed.
