Response to RIDOT Director Peter Alviti’s Comments about Washington Bridge Demolition

Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Peter Alviti recently appeared on WPRO with Gene Valicenti and Tara Granahan to discuss the demolition of the westbound Washington Bridge (Bridge 700) on I-195. One key issue raised is that RIDOT selected Aetna’s demolition bid, which was $1.9 million higher than the bid from Sigma-Manafort, raising concerns about the procurement process and how taxpayer money is being spent.

While Alviti defended the decision, he did not fully explain why the more expensive bid was chosen over the lower alternative. Transparency is crucial in large infrastructure projects, and taxpayers deserve answers about whether this was the most cost-effective and responsible choice. Were there safety or logistical concerns with Sigma-Manafort’s bid, or was another factor at play?

Rhode Island’s aging infrastructure demands smart spending, and decisions like these highlight the need for better oversight. As this project moves forward, public accountability is essential to ensure efficient and responsible use of funds. Watch this full video from Casey Jones – Professional Engineer for a deeper breakdown of these concerns. Watch it now!

Jones, Casey. My Response to RiDOT Director Peter Alviti’s Comments about Washington Bridge Demolition. YouTube, 5 Feb. 2025, https://youtu.be/0QviohU1-To?si=SpNnS35Jm7lrFcnS

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