Pinpoint Traffic Blog: Traffic pattern change on I-95 this weekend

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Posted: Sep 7, 2018 / 08:50 AM EDT / Updated: Sep 14, 2018 / 01:59 PM EDT

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Another major traffic pattern change affecting Providence commuters will go into effect Friday night

Starting at 9 p.m., RIDOT will begin its final stage of the Blackstone Street Bridge repairs.

Here’s a look at some of the deteriorating bridge conditions:

The bridge carries Interstate 95 near Rhode Island and Hasbro Children’s Hospitals.

Here’s what drivers can expect:

On Friday, the divided highway on I-95 North will be removed and all travel lanes will be shifted to the left.

A similar change will be made to I-95 South starting at 9 p.m. on Saturday, September 15.Drivers, keep in mind that new traffic pattern changes often come with a learning curve and delays – at least initially.

Know Before You Go: Pinpoint Traffic Trouble Spots

Charles St. Martin, spokesperson for the RIDOT, tells me there could be minor delays during the overnight hours.

The change will allow crews to finish work on the deck of the bridge carrying traffic in the low speed lanes on the highway.

All exits and ramps will stay open during the process. The lane shift is the last of three related to the project.

A reminder for drivers in the area, Blackstone Street will still be closed between Allens Avenue and Eddy street until late fall.

Melissa Sardelli (msardelli@wpri.com) is the Pinpoint Traffic Reporter for WPRI 12 and FOX Providence. If you have a traffic concern or question reach out to me on Twitter @MelissaSardelli or find me on Facebook.

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