R.I. Gen. Laws § 24-8-22: Examination and repair or construction of bridges.

The director of transportation shall make an examination of all state bridges, and shall determine which of the bridges shall be constructed, repaired or reconstructed, and contracts shall be placed in the manner prescribed by § 24-8-12 for the construction, reparation or reconstruction of the bridges; and the expense of the construction, reparation or reconstruction shall be paid by the state from funds available for this purpose.