Rhode Island DOT Director Peter Alviti will retire effective February 27, with a statewide search announced by Governor McKee for a replacement; interim leadership will come from RIDOT Chief Engineer Robert Rocchio.

Governor McKee expressed confidence in Rocchio’s leadership for the Washington Bridge rebuild and other ongoing projects, noting Alviti’s years of service across two administrations.

Alviti’s resignation letter indicated he had long planned retirement but stayed to help push the Washington Bridge project toward completion.

In the wake of the Washington Bridge failure, Alviti made statements the article characterizes as disputes over causes, timelines, and costs, with ongoing questions about accountability.

Critics allege past governance issues at RIDOT, including mismanagement and lack of transparency, with concerns about prioritizing road infrastructure over public transit and vulnerable communities, touching on the 6/10 Connector, contaminated soil, and RIPTA/Kennedy Plaza changes.

The piece includes political reactions and context, referencing campaign dynamics and public perception surrounding RIDOT leadership and the Washington Bridge project.

Foulkes criticized the timing of Alviti’s departure, framing it as tied to proposed reforms for the agency and suggesting political pressure influenced the decision.

Public and political reactions to Alviti’s departure were mixed, with supporters praising his service and opponents calling for accountability over the bridge crisis.

The piece notes broader political fallout, including a 2025 University of New Hampshire poll showing low support for Governor McKee and potential Democratic challengers.

The announcement follows a year marked by the December 2023 Washington Bridge closure near East Providence, which disrupted traffic and drew scrutiny of RIDOT leadership.

Alviti faced criticism after the December 2023 emergency closure of the Washington Bridge, which carries I-195 and connects Providence and East Providence.

This is breaking news and may be updated as more information becomes available.