RIDOT Initiates $21.6M Portsmouth Roadway Improvement Project

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has officially launched a significant $21.6 million roadway improvement initiative aimed at revitalizing vital sections of Portsmouth starting June 22, 2026. Specifically, this project focuses on Sprague Street, along with sections of Route 114 and Route 138. As the state aims to elevate transportation safety and accessibility, the multi-year project is designed to bring substantive upgrades to infrastructure that residents rely on daily. With an anticipated completion date of spring 2028, the project not only addresses immediate roadway needs but also aims to foster long-term benefits through enhanced infrastructure resilience.

The initiative encompasses several crucial components such as pavement reclamation, which involves removing the existing roadway surface and recycling it to create a new, stable base layer. This method is becoming increasingly favored due to its cost-effectiveness and reduced environmental impact when compared to traditional road construction methods. In addition, the project will feature upgrades to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, which will enhance accessibility for all members of the community, particularly those with mobility challenges. Upgraded traffic signals and safety installations will further aim to reduce accidents and improve vehicle and pedestrian flow.