Plan unveiled to replace deteriorating 6/10 interchange

Steel beams shore up deteriorating concrete beneath the 6/10 connector in Providence, prompting Gov. Giona Raimondo to order $400 million in expedited repairs. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
Steel beams shore up deteriorating concrete beneath the 6/10 connector in Providence, prompting Gov. Giona Raimondo to order $400 million in expedited repairs. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A new plan to replace a deteriorating highway interchange in Providence aims to improve safety and enhance surrounding neighborhoods.

City and state officials unveiled a compromise plan Thursday for the interchange at Routes 6 and 10, a $400 million project.

Earlier plans drew criticism from city residents and environmentalists who called the roadway design flawed.

A ramp replaces plans for an elevated rotary that drivers were worried about.

Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo says the plan keeps motorists safe, preserves the budget and timeline, improves traffic flow, helps reconnect surrounding neighborhoods, creates new bike paths and makes land available for development.

Part of a viaduct will be demolished to connect two Providence neighborhoods. An onramp will be eliminated to make land available for development.

Construction is expected to begin next fall.

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