Study Reveals $114M Negative Economic Impact & 1,300 Jobs Lost From Washington Bridge Closure
GoLocalProv News Team
Study Reveals $114M Negative Economic Impact & 1,300 Jobs Lost From Washington Bridge Closure
The study was released on Tuesday.
The report highlights a projected $114 million loss in statewide hospitality-related revenue during the first 12 months following the shutdown, creating a substantial strain on local businesses and employment.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe Washington Bridge, a critical artery for east-west travel, was closed on December 11, 2023, due to structural failures.
“This study provides critical insight into the economic toll of the Washington Bridge closure on our industry, but also highlights opportunities for recovery,” said Farouk Rajab, President/CEO, RI Hospitality Association. “The data underscores the urgency of continued legislative support to mitigate long-term challenges. Restaurants, hotels, and other small businesses are the backbone of Rhode Island’s economy, and we need collaborative efforts with state lawmakers, as well as the community’s help to sustain them.”
According to the report, Providence County has borne the brunt of the impact, accounting for $56.7 million of the total hospitality revenue loss. Other counties, including Kent and Newport, also experienced notable declines, with economic losses reaching $29.8 million and $16.5 million, respectively. Washington County reported a $17.6 million loss, highlighting the widespread effect of the bridge closure on regions dependent on hospitality-driven revenue.
1,300 Jobs Lost
The report also estimates a statewide job loss of 1,342 positions within the hospitality sector during the first 12 months of closure. The greatest employment losses occurred in Providence County, where 668 hospitality-related jobs were eliminated, while Kent and Washington Counties also experienced significant declines. However, the study revealed a contrasting trend in Bristol County, which saw a 2.3% increase in hospitality revenue, equating to a $6.6 million gain. This uptick suggests a shift in consumer travel patterns, with some economic activity being redistributed to areas less affected by the bridge closure.
Looking beyond the first year, the study projects the total economic impact on Rhode Island’s hospitality industry to reach $748 million by 2029, further emphasizing the long-term implications of the Washington Bridge’s closure. Key municipalities, including Providence, Warwick, and South Kingstown, were identified as among the hardest hit, reflecting the critical role the bridge plays in supporting businesses and transportation connectivity.