DOT removes lane from Route 122

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation said Wednesday it will remove a lane from Route 122 in Cumberland and Lincoln in hopes of lowering speeds and improving pedestrian safety.

The DOT said it will restripe Mendon Road and Lonsdale Avenue from four lanes to three between Broad Street in Cumberland and Front Street in Lincoln.  The new configuration will feature one travel lane in each direction and a center turning lane.

The DOT said it wants traffic to move slower to make it easier for pedestrians to cross the street. Wider shoulders will improve the safety of bicyclists.

The restriping is planned to be completed by the end of this week.