To the editor:

A recent press release regarding the completion of the Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown reconstruction found RIDOT taking a self-awarded victory lap. 

Most of us remember the “On Time On Budget” signs that were posted on Aquidneck Avenue before the project began. RIDOT is indeed a skilled prognosticator. Now that the project is completed we could at least learn of the “On Time On Budget” status of the project. Perhaps RIDOT cold use this experience to address the Sprague Street, Portsmouth issue. While the road clearly needs resurfacing, the most egregious condition is the lack of sidewalks for our high school students who walk to school and from school in the street. Half the time with their back to oncoming traffic,

The press release mentions Newport and Middletown’s contribution to the project as though it was willing offered. RIDOT, with the assistance of the legislature, now requires municipal utilities to bear one half the cost of water line replacement/upgrade. RIDOT tells the local utility the cost and who will do the work.

The press release takes credit for minimizing disruption. This “attaboy” fails to mention the disruption to the local shop owners. One restaurant saw sales decline by 50 percent during the project, which dragged out because the contractor couldn’t keep on schedule.

Perhaps we will get a press release for the Green Lane work. This one never seems to end. Green Lane eventually got sidewalks on both sides.

And then there is East Main Road, Portsmouth. The widening and upgrade was promised 50 years ago and the Town Center 20 years ago.

Stand by for the next press release.

Philip Driscoll

Portsmouth