The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) announced the launch of a new a real-time traffic report on its website RITBA.org. Through a data-sharing partnership with Waze – the free, real-time crowds sourced navigation app – RITBA will now deliver up-to-date information regarding lane closures, construction activity and traffic conditions for motorists using its bridges and roadways. A real-time traffic map with current roadway conditions will be embedded on the RITBA website as well as traffics alerts. In addition, RITBA will continue to use its social media platforms – Twitter and Facebook, to provide traffic updates.
This initiative is in conjunction with the recent announcement of the Ten-Year Capital Plan developed through a comprehensive and thorough review and assessment of all of the assets owned and maintained by RITBA. The Plan, at a total cost of $223,417,000, the average annual cost being $22 million per year, includes major repairs and maintenance improvements to all of RITBA’s roadways and bridges. With scheduled maintenance and repairs to commence on the Mount Hope and Newport Pell Bridges, RITBA wants to keep the public as informed as possible. In addition to keeping the public informed, this initiative is to promote greater efficiency, deeper insights and safer roads for citizens.
“RITBA is working hard to maintain and extend the life of these major bridges. The construction maintenance projects bring with them traffic issues. We are doing everything possible to minimize traffic delays. This new imitative allows the motoring public to get real time traffic information and construction updates on our web site” stated Buddy Croft, Executive Director of the RITBA.
To view the real-time roadway maps and get the latest traffic alerts, individuals can visit RITBA.org. This will allow them to stay informed and get the latest information concerning lane closures, construction activity and traffic delays for the Newport Pell, Jamestown Verrazzano, Mount Hope and Sakonnet River Bridge, in addition to the RT. 138 Connector.
