During this first-of-three major controlled explosive demolitions, 75 pounds of explosives were positioned on the main span truss of the bridge and the controlled demolition charges took only seconds to go off. It sounded like the finale of a big fireworks show.
To allow the controlled explosive demolition to occur, the new Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge, Route 138, had to be closed for four hours, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., for a final safety check and clean up after the blast.
Those who could not make it to the designated viewing areas to see the demolition were able to view the detonation on local news, cable tv or even with live online video feeds.
To complete the large-scale controlled explosive demolition work this year, two additional major bridge closures, lasting up to four hours, will take place along with about a dozen shorter 30 minute closures. RIDOT is working closely with Cashman Equipment Corporation, the project's prime contractor, to keep the number of closures on the new Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge to a minimum.
The second of three major controlled explosive demolitions is expected to take place before the Memorial Day holiday. During this detonation deck trusses and girder spans, approximately 2,200 feet, will be demolished. After that the central concrete supporting piers will be removed during the third and final major blast.
The west passage of Narragansett Bay will remain closed for about a month until all of the debris from today's blast is removed.
"The opening of the Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge in 1992 marked the beginning of a new era for our state's transportation system," said Governor Donald L. Carcieri. "When I first took office, I said I would tear down this bridge. With Senator Chafee's help, we are finally beginning that process. Razing the old Jamestown Bridge will not only remove an eyesore from our beautiful Narragansett Bay, but the debris will be used to create artificial reefs for marine habitat. This is truly the moment we've all been waiting for."
"The era of the old Jamestown Bridge is over," said RIDOT's Director James R. Capaldi,"and this detonation signifies that the demolition process is well underway."
But as interesting as a bridge going down can be, Rhode Island can look forward to the sight of a new brige going up -- going up the bay atop barges to Providence. The Providence River center span will be floated from its construction site in Davisville to the Upper Bay, where the barges will be sunk for support, then cranes will lift the brige span into place.
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