It is official...

> RIDOT News Release
> 5/7/2007
> Contact: Frances Segerson 401-222-1362 Ext. 4012 PR Number: 46-07
>
> I-195 EB Washington Bridge walkway to close for construction The
> continuing construction of I-195 on the Washington Bridge will bring a
> temporary end to the use of an old Washington Bridge walkway for both
> bicyclists and pedestrians. RIDOT had originally expected to close the
> walkway in July 2006, and postponed it by erecting protective
> screening between the bike path and the construction area.
>
> The walkway will now close on Monday, May 21 and will remain closed
> for at least 17 months, possibly longer. Recreational bike riders are
> being encouraged to start their East Bay Bike Path rides at one of the
> many parking areas in East Providence which are noted on RIDOT's
> BikeRI web site at www.dot.state.ri.us/bikeri. Cycling commuters
> heading to Providence should consider using the Henderson Bridge, or
> crossing with their bikes on RIPTA buses (www.ripta.com) which pass
> over the Washington Bridge, bus routes such as Route 32 West
> Barrington, Route 33 Riverside, Route 34 East Providence, and Route 60
> Providence / Newport. Bike racks are available on all RIPTA buses.
>
> Closure of the walkway will allow for reconstruction of a section the
> Exit 4 ramp which passes over Valley Street in East Providence.
> Construction is expected to be complete in October 2008. This project
> may be followed immediately by construction of a new Washington Bridge
> Linear Park. The park will feature an 11-foot wide bike path and a
> separate seven-foot wide walking path. A wide area in the center of
> the park will offer benches, decorative lighting and plantings that
> will give riders and walkers a space to pause and admire the view.
>
> The $15 million Linear Park project will preserve a segment of the old
> Washington Bridge by reusing its historic southern façade. An
> interactive presentation with multiple views of the new bike path
> bridge can be found on RIDOT's web site at
> www.dot.state.ri.us/bikeri/WashingtonBridge.


Yeah i can cross the bridge on a RIPTA bus with the trailer! NOT...

*shurg* minor inconvenience i suppose compared to the hurdles many face commuting to work by bike.