The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is set to resume demolition of the Washington Bridge, with work beginning on October 15.

Governor Dan McKee will meet with RIDOT officials for updates on the demolition and reconstruction efforts, highlighting the legal complexities involved.

A community meeting is scheduled for October 17 at 6 p.m. to address residents' concerns regarding the demolition process.

RIDOT has promoted this meeting as an opportunity for residents and business owners to ask questions, although previous meetings have left many attendees with more questions than answers.

Criticism has arisen regarding the timing of public meetings, particularly one held on a Friday evening during the Jewish New Year, which was deemed insufficient for genuine community engagement.

Residents have expressed frustration over unexpected overnight construction noise during the initial demolition phase.

The cost of the demolition project has risen by 26%, now totaling $58.2 million, with no bidders currently for the bridge's replacement.

Demolition was previously halted in September to preserve evidence for a lawsuit against 13 contractors related to the bridge's failure.

Governor McKee emphasized the need for efficient progress on the bridge project to ensure safety for Rhode Islanders.

A new two-step procurement process for the bridge reconstruction has been initiated, with two finalists expected to be chosen early next year.

RIDOT is conducting additional monitoring of the bridge during demolition to ensure safety, although there are currently no indications of issues.

The application period for state grant money to assist businesses affected by the bridge's closure has closed, with over 1,200 applications submitted from 30 cities and towns.