AIE's Role in Modernizing a Critical Rhode Island Corridor

Stretching through the towns of Lincoln, North Providence, North Smithfield, and Providence, Route 146 is one of Rhode Island’s busiest and most critical highways. Serving as a key link between Providence and Worcester, Massachusetts, this vital corridor carries more than 171,000 vehicles each day, connecting communities, supporting commerce, and sustaining regional mobility.

To meet the demands of modern travel and address decades of wear, the RIDOT launched an ambitious Design-Build initiative: the Reconstruction of Bridge Group 96 – Route 146 Project. This multi-faceted effort is reimagining Route 146 through structural upgrades, safety-focused redesigns, and smart infrastructure enhancements.

AI Engineers, Inc. (AIE) is playing a pivotal role in this transformation by delivering expert construction engineering and inspection services. Through collaborative planning, precision fieldwork, and a focus on quality, AIE is helping bring long-term resilience and efficiency to one of the state’s most heavily traveled routes.

A Corridor in Need of Transformation

Route 146 is more than just a highway. It’s an economic lifeline that connects communities, supports local businesses, and enables regional travel across state lines. However, decades of increasing traffic, aging infrastructure, and complex intersections have led to persistent challenges in safety and efficiency. The Reconstruction of Bridge Group 96 aims to address this critical corridor by replacing outdated bridge structures, eliminating traffic signals that contribute to congestion, enhancing the roadway’s geometry and overall traffic flow, introducing smart technology for real-time traffic management, and improving access to local destinations and surrounding businesses.

Bridge Replacements and Structural Upgrades

As part of the broader scope, the project includes the full replacement of one bridge and the preservation or rehabilitation of four additional structures along the Route 146 corridor. These improvements are designed to extend the service life of critical infrastructure while minimizing future maintenance needs.

AIE is overseeing construction inspection activities to ensure all work meets RIDOT’s standards for quality and durability. By collaborating closely with contractors and project stakeholders, AIE is helping to keep the project on track while maintaining smooth traffic operations throughout the construction process.

Smarter Roadways with ITS and Bus Accommodations

Modern transportation isn’t just about concrete and steel. It’s also about data, communication, and smart infrastructure. That’s why the project includes extending fiber optic lines and implementing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) from the southern end of Route 146 all the way to the Massachusetts border.

This technology will support real-time traffic monitoring, dynamic signage, and improved incident response, helping RIDOT manage traffic flow more efficiently and proactively.

In support of multi-modal transportation, the project also includes bus-on-shoulder accommodation along the southern stretch of Route 146 through North Providence and Providence. These dedicated shoulders will enable transit vehicles to bypass congestion during peak hours, providing a reliable alternative for commuters while supporting Rhode Island’s commitment to sustainable transportation.

Redesigned Interchanges for Safer Navigation

One of the more ambitious geometric upgrades is the reconstruction of Route 146/Route 146A interchange, which will feature a diverging diamond interchange (DDI) design. This innovative interchange layout improves safety by reducing conflict points and streamlining turning movements which is ideal for high-traffic areas with complex merging and weaving patterns.

These improvements are specifically designed to reduce sudden braking, lane-changing, and other behaviors that increase crash risk, while also promoting a more predictable and comfortable driving experience.

Sustainable Drainage for Infrastructure Longevity

The project includes the installation of new drainage systems designed to efficiently manage stormwater runoff, preventing flooding and reducing wear on the road. Additionally, updated guardrails and barriers are being put in place to meet modern safety standards. These improvements not only ensure safer travel but also contribute to the overall lifespan of the roadway by mitigating environmental impacts and minimizing long-term wear.

AIE’s Role in Construction Management and Inspection

As the construction engineering and inspection partner, AIE is responsible for overseeing daily construction activities, ensuring compliance with design specifications, reviewing contractor submittals, and coordinating quality control efforts. Our team also provides technical support to address on-site challenges and keep the project moving efficiently. With experience in similar transportation projects, AIE contributes practical oversight and coordination to support the successful delivery of this corridor improvement.