Judge Denies Request To Block Toll Collection on Sakonnet River Bridge

A federal judge decided not to grant a restriction that would block tolling on the Sakonnet River Bridge during a hearing in chambers on Wednesday afternoon, according to a Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority official.

The town of Portsmouth submitted a request for a restraining order against toll collection pending the outcome of a lawsuit that could reverse the Federal Highway Administration's decision to allow tolling.

Senior Judge Ronald R. Lagueux ruled this afternoon to allow the RITBA to continue its move toward toll collection and also delayed allowing Tiverton and Bristol from joining the Portsmouth lawsuit against tolls.

A hearing will be held on the injunction next Thursday in Providence.

"The 1st of July is our timeframe at this point [to start collection]," said David Darlington, RITBA chairman. "We are working continuously to get ready, but there is still plenty of time here for the court to take a look at whats before them and make its decision before we start collecting tolls."