Rhode Island GOP Chairman Slams Governor McKee’s Administration for Lack of Transparency Amid Washington Bridge Closure

Providence, RI - It has been 63 days since the abrupt closure of the Washington Bridge, a pivotal artery in Rhode Island’s transportation network. With Rhode Islanders left in the dark regarding the prolonged closure of the Washington Bridge, frustration continues to grow over what appears to be a glaring lack of transparency and accountability from Governor Dan McKee’s Administration.

In anticipation of today’s joint House and Senate Oversight Hearing, Republican Party of Rhode Island Chairman Joe Powers released the following statement:

“The closure of the Washington Bridge has dealt a severe blow to our community, causing widespread disruptions and hardships. Governor McKee’s Administration’s failure to provide clear and concise explanations for this debacle is deeply troubling. Rhode Islanders deserve better. They demand swift and candid responses from their elected officials. Governor McKee must step up and provide a detailed account of the events that led to the bridge closure. Immediate action must be taken to implement measures that will prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“I strongly urge the Legislature to look at establishing an independent Office of the Inspector General to prevent similar crises from occurring in the future.”