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RIPTA Takes a Turn in the Road for Bus Service – Commitment to Move Hub to Train Station
The future of RIPTA took a dramatic turn in the road as revised plans to eliminate and alter bus routes became a new, “targeted, data-driven service adjustment, with new revenue strategies including a fare strategy, and structural reforms aligned with rider demand and efficiency study recommendations”.
The announcement also reinforced the idea of moving the central bus hub to the Providence Train Station area.
Governor Dan McKee and Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) CEO Christopher Durand announced the new budget framework aimed at closing RIPTA’s operating deficit, beginning to strengthen its long-term financial footing, and preserving essential services. The proposal now achieves these goals without any route eliminations or driver layoffs, while “setting the foundation for a stronger, more modern transit system”.
“This joint proposal charts a responsible path forward — beginning to stabilize RIPTA’s finances while protecting core service for students and working families who count on transit every day,” said Governor Dan McKee. “These reforms address the multi-year budget deficit at RIPTA without relying on future wide-ranging tax increases for Rhode Islanders.”
Key components of the new budget framework include:
- Protecting core services so that no current routes will be fully eliminated.
- Data-driven service realignment that minimizes reductions while generally focusing on lower-ridership routes and off-peak hours;
- Increased advertising revenue strategies and enhanced federal reimbursements;
- Administrative efficiencies through targeted staffing adjustments and streamlined operations;
- A comprehensive, multi-year fare adjustment plan to ensure sufficient revenue for sustaining service;
- A one-time advance from the State to support implementation and explore federal funding opportunities.
The proposal protects key services:
- Continuing the RIde Anywhere program for riders with disabilities without any cuts;
- Ensuring routes to CCRI and URI remain in place;
- Protecting core service for Providence Public School students;
- Maintaining critical service to major employers.
The proposal also includes a commitment to strengthen and modernize public transit by:
- Expanding employer partnerships;
- Strategically locating RIPTA’s new central transit hub, moving operations to a state-of-the-art, intermodal facility at the Providence Train Station.
To review the proposed changes: