RIDOT: RI Highway Deaths Down 30 Percent in 2018

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation is reporting fewer highway deaths in 2018 than in 2017. Preliminary statistics show that 59 people died on Rhode Island roadways in 2018, compared to 84 in 2017.

"We're working hard to reach the goal of zero deaths and are investing $3 million to combat impaired driving," the department said in a press release. "It's a long-term investment, but we're committed to doing our part to help save lives. Please join us and make Rhode Island a leader in highway safety."

RIDOT also gave updates on six major construction projects aimed at improving the state's roadways.

In Charlestown and Richmond, protective shielding will be installed under the Carolina village bridges on Route 112. The current alternating one-way traffic pattern will stay in place in both the North and South lanes from Butter Lane to Carolina Mill Lane.

On Pound Hill Road in North Smithfield, crews will install rebar and concrete. The construction will take place behind barriers and is not expected to cause any lane closures.

At the Route 6/10 interchange, construction continues to impact travel and cause delays during commuting hours. There will be periodic left lanes closures on Route 6 West from the Tobey Street on-ramp to the Route 10 South split on weekdays from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Delays are expected to continue.

Finally, there will be alternating lane closures on both the North and South side of I-95 in Exeter at the Victory Highway Bridge between exits 5A and 5B. The closures will be in place from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday night through Thursday night.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock