RITBA and RISP to Strictly Enforce Newport Pell/Mount Hope Regs on Oversize/Overweight Vehicles

JAMESTOWN – The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) wants to remind all commercial and private entities that utilize oversized and overweight vehicles about the Authority’s requirements for crossing the Newport Pell and Mount Hope Bridges. Due to ongoing construction on both bridges, RITBA and the Rhode Island State Police are strictly enforcing the rules and regulation for these types of vehicles. This enforcement will make the bridges safer for your business, your drivers, and the motoring public.

All commercial vehicles with Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) OVER 26,000 pounds are restricted to travel in the RIGHT outside lane ONLY on the Newport Pell Bridge. Additionally, all commercial vehicles must use the gated lanes at the Newport Pell toll plaza.

RITBA also requires a permit for both overwide and oversized vehicles to better coordinate the timing of crossings on the Newport Pell and Mount Hope bridges. This is for safety reasons as the ongoing construction necessitates periodic lane closures.

Overwide/overweight applicants must apply and pay for a permit at least two business days prior to travel. Once an application is approved, a copy will be sent to the customer. All drivers for the approved load must 1) only use the far right lane in the toll plaza and 2) provide a copy of the approved permit to the toll collector before travel over the bridge is allowed. RITBA’s online permitting system for users to apply, and pay for, a bridge permit can be found on RITBA’s website at www.ritba.org. Also, as a reminder, some boats that are being towed are considered to be overwide and will require a permit.

If you have any questions concerning permits, regulations or conditions, please do not hesitate to contact RITBA’s administration at 401-423-0800.