DOT 65-10
Contact: Nancy Singer
Phone: 202-366-0660

Funds Will Be Used to Repair Roads and Bridges Damaged by Flooding

WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced that he is making $3 million in emergency relief funds immediately available to Rhode Island to make urgent road repairs needed as a result of heavy rains and flooding.

"The recent record flooding in Rhode Island has hit the state very hard," said Secretary LaHood. "I'm pleased that the Department was able to act quickly and we will continue to work with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation to assess the damage."

The $3 million will help Rhode Island repair and reconstruct six key bridges that are closed, including the Laurel Avenue Bridge in Coventry and the Douglas Avenue (Route 7) Bridge in North Providence. Quick release funds also will go toward the inspection and monitoring of more than 180 bridges throughout the state that were damaged by the flooding.

"Quick release funds will give Rhode Island a financial boost to focus on areas that require immediate attention after the flooding," Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez said. "Getting these bridges and roads back in shape will help people get back to their daily routines."

FHWA's emergency relief program provides funds to states for the repair or reconstruction of federal-aid highways damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events.

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