R.I. Gen. Laws § 24-5-18: Bridges and fences on artificial watercourses along preexisting highways.

Whenever any artificial watercourse has been or shall be made under, through or by the side of any highway previously existing, the proprietors or occupants of the watercourse shall make and maintain all necessary bridges over the watercourse and all fences which may be necessary along the side of the watercourse.