PROVIDENCE, RI - Governor Dan McKee today announced the shortlist of two highly qualified design-build teams selected as part of the request for qualifications (RFQ) process for the replacement of the westbound Washington Bridge. The companies will proceed to the request for proposal (RFP) phase of the procurement and compete for the contract to build the new bridge.

The two design-build teams - Walsh Construction Company II, LLC and the joint venture of American Bridge Company and MLJ Contracting Corporation - have hundreds of years of combined experience in completing large bridge projects both nationally and internationally.

“Since March 14 when it was determined the Washington Bridge must be rebuilt, we've continued to make progress toward ensuring Rhode Islanders have a bridge that will outlast our lifetimes,” said Governor Dan McKee. “With the selection of two highly qualified construction teams to compete for the rebuild project, I am pleased to see progress continue.” 

The next step in the procurement process will be the issuance of the initial RFP, expected on December 18. The two design-build teams will review and provide comments on the initial RFP, with a final version to be issued on January 24. The companies will then develop their proposals in response to the final RFP.

Final technical proposals are due in mid-May followed by cost proposals, which are due in late May. The State will make a tentative award to one design-build team on June 6 with a final notice to proceed on July 15.

With the notice to proceed, the winning team will begin work including finalizing the design, obtaining permits, and staging equipment. The commencement of work in the field will be determined by the schedule provided by the winning design-build team at the time of the award.

As the procurement advances, the bridge demolition contractor is set to complete the removal of the old bridge’s superstructure by February 21. Work on the demolition of the substructure will begin in February and conclude by the end of 2025.

Please click here for a copy of the Governor's prepared remarks.