Providence Council backs state bill to create Crook Point Bridge Authority after debate over liability

The Providence City Council voted in favor of a resolution urging the Rhode Island General Assembly to create a Crook Point Bridge Authority, after members spent more than an hour debating liability, safety and state funding.

Supporters framed the resolution as a step to preserve a local landmark and unlock state dollars. “This authority will have the ability to make decisions and put together a plan for the future,” Councilwoman Ryan said, noting “the monies that were transferred or allocated … were upwards of $6,000,000” and that the resolution itself does not spend city funds.

Opponents raised concerns that creating or accepting responsibility for the bridge could expose the city to future costs if the structure required demolition, repair or became subject to lawsuits. “If someone could tell me that this bridge was safe, I would change my mind,” Councilman Taylor said, describing reports that federal authorities had deemed the structure unsafe and warning the city could face liability if it assumed ownership.

Solicitor Sosa told the council the resolution before them simply expressed support for state legislation to establish a quasi‑public authority; it did not itself transfer ownership or impose an immediate fiscal obligation on the city. “This legislation just creates an authority which could subsequently be able to take possession of the bridge,” Sosa said, adding additional steps would be needed before any transfer or cost to the city.

Members also discussed the background of earlier state funding and planning. Several speakers said about $6 million had been in past state budgets for the bridge and related projects, and one member noted figures discussed that ranged up to roughly $6.6 million.

After the discussion the council voted to pass the resolution for the first time on a roll-call vote. The measure passed with the required majority, and the council instructed staff to send copies of the resolution to state legislative leaders and the Providence delegation.

The resolution directs that, if enacted by the General Assembly, the Crook Point Bridge Authority would be responsible for the development and maintenance of the landmark, and that subsequent actions involving expenditures or transfers of ownership would require further approvals and, where appropriate, fiscal notes.