RIDOT awards $339 million contract to rebuild Washington Bridge by November 2028

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has officially awarded the contract to build a new westbound Washington Bridge, after months of uncertainty following the structure’s sudden closure in December 2023.

Governor Dan McKee announced Friday that the winning bidder is Walsh Construction out of Chicago, one of two nationally recognized firms selected as finalists late last year. The construction contract is valued at $339 million, with additional incentives and contingencies that could increase the total cost to as much as $427 million.

The project is scheduled for completion by November 3, 2028, roughly five years after the unexpected closure of the bridge.

A $10 million incentive is offered for early completion, while penalties will be imposed for any delays beyond the scheduled date.

The losing bidder American Bridge Co./MLJ Contracting will receive a $1.75 million stipend for participating in the proposal process.

The selection comes after the state’s initial attempt last July failed to attract any offers.

The new bridge will replace the 56-year-old span that was shut down with no notice due to a critical structural failure, creating traffic disruptions across the region.

Governor McKee’s administration has faced mounting criticism over the handling of the bridge crisis, with recent polling showing an approval of only 19%.