Morning commute will test new Iway ramp

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The latest addition to the Iway is open. People who normally travel from 95 South to 195 East have to take a different route now.

Another milestone for Rhode Island drivers; a new ramp on the Providence Iway redirecting traffic from the old left side-exit to the right side of Rt. 95-South at 195.

This new Exit-20, which opened Saturday,  is part of the $600 million project redirecting highway traffic around downtown Providence. According to the DOT, it was a successful opening.

State Police said the opening went fine, with just some sporadic congestion. There was one bump in the road and it backed-up traffic. A fender bender, was caused when a driver became confused about the new configuration.

Chris Frelix just took the new exit on his way home from work and found it more convenient.

The DOT says the true test will come Monday and Tuesday during the evening commute.
And caution, if you have a break-down, the shoulder is more narrow now so wait in your car. Cameras are monitoring the road and help will be dispatched.

Sunday night, the DOT is scheduled to begin demoltion of the Friendship and Pine Street overpasses on I-95.