This week: Hundreds of emails obtained by NBC 10 News through a public records request shine clarify the timeline of events leading up to the Washington Bridge closure, the latest on Costco’s plans for a store in Cranston and — in case you missed it — the stars came out at the State House to promote a new Hollywood film.
Department of Transportation emails detail Washington Bridge timeline
We’re learning more about the critical discovery that closed the westbound side of the Washington Bridge.
The bridge was closed at 5 p.m. Dec. 11 — a Monday — after a critical failure was found the previous Friday.
Emails obtained by NBC 10 News in a public records request outline the discovery.
The state was first notified of rod failures in the bridge structure at 1:40 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8.
The governor and the transportation director said they weren’t told about the problems until Monday, when the decision was made to shut down the bridge.
The state Department of Transportation’s deputy chief engineer noted that the failure may not have been new but may have become more noticeable due to ongoing construction work.
Legislative oversight hearings are expected to begin this month.
Costco hits pause on Cranston store as talks with developer continue
Plans for a Costco Wholesale club in Cranston may not be dead, but they’re definitely at a standstill.
A key approval needed for Costco to build in Cranston was withdrawn in September.
The mayor’s chief of staff, Tony Moretti, said the project isn’t dead, but on pause as Costco and land developer Robert Baccari II have private conversations.
Rhode Island welcomes Hollywood stars ahead of ‘Ella McCay’ film production
Some of Hollywood’s biggest names are in Rhode Island to make a movie.
Local leaders welcomed the cast of the “Ella McCay,” which will be filmed in the state.
Emma Mackey, Woody Harrelson and Jamie Lee Curtis star in the comedy, which is directed by James L. Brooks.
Margaritaville Resort to replace Cape Codder in Hyannis
A new Margaritaville Resort is heading to Cape Cod.
The resort is set to take the place of the former Cape Codder Resort and Spa in Hyannis.