PROVIDENCE (WPRI) -- The cost of round-the-clock police coverage at Rhode Island's partly. closed Washington Bridge has surpassed $5 million, with years remaining before a replacement span opens, a Target 12 investigation has found.

State police have maintained a 24-hour emergency presence on I-195 since the westbound bridge abruptly closed in December 2023, forcing two-way traffic onto the eastbound side and eliminating breakdown lanes.

On local roads, East Providence and Providence police have also assigned details, particularly during rush hour.

The total price tag for police details has reached nearly $5.4 million through August, according to records reviewed by Target 12 and confirmed by the R.I. Department of Transportation. The State Police has received $3.2 million in reimbursem

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