Council backs resolution urging state to let municipalities contract with RIDOT for routine state-road work

The Warwick City Council approved a resolution urging the Rhode Island General Assembly to consider legislation that would permit municipalities to enter contracts with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) to perform minor routine maintenance on state-owned roads and seek reimbursement from the state. Supporters said the change would let Warwick respond faster to potholes, fallen signs and other day-to-day issues on state routes; some public commenters raised concerns about cost, liability and whether the city should take on maintenance responsibilities if it cannot keep up with its own roads.

Why it matters: The measure would not unilaterally transfer responsibility for state roads to cities; instead, it would allow a case-by-case contracting mechanism enabling a municipality to propose to perform specific minor repairs, with the state agreeing to reimburse the city if it accepts the offer. Proponents say that will speed repairs and improve resident service when the state response times are slow.

What the council did: After committee review and public comment the council approved the resolution. The intergovernmental committee voted unanimously in favor of the proposal; the full council confirmed the committee recommendation and adopted the resolution.

Key discussion points: At committee, Councilor Nao asked whether the proposal should include a guaranteed timeline for state reimbursement; sponsor Council President Sanappi said the measure leaves those details to the General Assembly and to contract terms, but noted the draft language requires a formal contract in each case so timelines and liability can be addressed there. Resident Michelle Comar supported the concept but warned the city already struggles to keep up with municipal roadwork and urged caution about adding additional cost and exposure to taxpayers. Officials emphasized the measure is intended as a voluntary, project-by-project option rather than a mandatory shift of state responsibilities.

Vote: The intergovernmental committee reported a 4-0 favorable vote; the full council later approved the resolution on the floor.

Next steps: The resolution asks the General Assembly to consider enabling legislation; the council and administration said they would share specifics and suggested contract terms with state legislators if the General Assembly chooses to act.

Ending: Supporters said the option would allow the city to expedite small repairs that affect residents' quality of life; critics urged the city secure guarantees on reimbursement timing and liability protection before undertaking significant work on state roads.