By Sandy McGee
The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority has ceased all maintenance work on both the Mount Hope and Pell Bridges Tuesday after a subcontractor fell off scaffolding and was injured.
"This morning, at approximately 8:30 a.m., an employee of a subcontractor tasked with the steel painting and repair work of the Mount Hope Bridge, fell approximately 70 feet," wrote RDW Director of Public Relations Beth Bailey in a statement on behalf of the RITBA.
"[The emergency number] 911 was called and emergency personnel transported him to Rhode Island Hospital. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time," Bailey wrote.
The subcontractor was transported to Rhode Island Hospital. His medical condition is unknown at this time.
RITBA, which provides maintenance on both the Mount Hope and Pell Bridges, has ceased all work at this time.
"The bridge is open, and out of an abundance of caution we have stopped work on both the Newport Pell and Mount Hope Bridges pending a review of safety procedures and requirements," Bailey wrote.
"We express our gratitude to the emergency responders and RITBA employees who assisted at the scene."
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Several messages left with Bristol Fire and Rescue were not returned as of Tuesday afternoon.
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