Drivers warned of new traffic pattern on I-95 south

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation is expecting congestion along with the next phase of Iway construction in downtown Providence.

The work on Interstate 95 south involves two lane splits and the temporary relocation of the exit for Interstate 195. 

The changes are scheduled to go into effect Wednesday and they will remain in place for five to six weeks.

The DOT said the exit for Interstate 195 will be moved a half-mile north. Drivers from Route 6 or the Providence Place mall will have less time to move left to stay on I-95 south.

Southbound drivers will encounter the first of two lane splits after exit 21. One travel lane will be eliminated. Drivers continuing south on I-95 should stay left; drivers headed for I-195 will need to stay right.

The second split will be located near the Point Street overpass. One lane will go to the left and two lanes will go to the right. All lanes continue on I-95 south, but drivers headed for the hospitals need to stay right.

The DOT urges drivers who miss their exit to continue driving to the next exit. The agency said drivers should not stop or attempt to back up on the busy highway.

Officials said drivers should consider alternate routes during the construction period. The DOT has suggestions posted on its Web site.