(Warwick, R.I.) Congressmen Jim Langevin and Patrick Kennedy today sent a letter to Congressman James L. Oberstar, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee asking that the needs of Rhode Island be kept in mind as the Committee prepares to develop a legislative response to bridge safety nationally.

“While small, Rhode Island’s high population density and significant maintenance costs pose challenges to state leaders trying to upgrade our aging roads and bridges,” said Langevin. “Mr. Kennedy and I will continue to advocate for our constituents and make sure the state Department of Transportation has the resources to keep the traveling public safe.”

This letter was written after inspections revealed Rhode Island’s bridges were substandard. The inspections were prompted by the tragic collapse of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis this summer.

“Anything that could potentially jeopardize safe travel through our state or shake the confidence of our citizens or visitors is completely unacceptable and must be addressed immediately,” said Kennedy. “However, it is clear that Rhode Island will need federal assistance to help solve our state’s aging infrastructure. As the Committee moves forward to respond to this national need, we are asking for support in light of the urgency of this matter.” 

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