News Summary
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority has approved significant cuts to its bus services due to a projected budget deficit of $9.4 million. This decision affects over 40 routes, reducing frequency and eliminating weekend services, with critics warning about accessibility issues for low-income residents. Despite reassurances that there will be no layoffs for bus drivers, advocacy groups express concern over public transit accessibility. Public hearings are expected soon to discuss the ramifications of these cuts on the community.
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island – The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has approved significant service cuts across its bus network to address a projected budget deficit of $9.4 million. The changes will take effect on September 27, impacting more than 40 of RIPTA’s 67 routes, leading to reduced frequency and the elimination of some weekend and holiday services.
RIPTA’s board of directors cast a majority vote to implement this plan after a request from Governor Dan McKee to reconsider an earlier proposal that would have cut 16 bus routes entirely. The approved measures focus on high-cost, low-performing routes, based on analysis of ridership demand data. The objective is to close the operational deficit while maintaining all service routes, which the agency believes will help avoid a tax increase for Rhode Islanders.
Despite these intentions, public advocacy groups and transit riders have criticized the decision, arguing that the service reductions will harm public transit accessibility, particularly for low-income residents. Notably, Route 68 will see its frequency cut in half and will no longer run on weekends, while Route 69, crucial for University of Rhode Island students, will experience reduced weekday service and eliminate weekend buses. The planned cuts include service reductions on Park & Ride routes and changes affecting service to the Community College of Rhode Island.
RIPTA’s Chief Executive Officer reported that no layoffs for bus drivers will occur as part of the plan; instead, drivers will be reassigned to the paratransit program. The budget measures necessary for the plan include a one-time $3 million advance of federal funds, along with $2.4 million in additional cost efficiencies achieved by holding 13 managerial positions vacant. This budget revision reflects the board’s determination to pass a balanced budget while also striving for improvements in the transit system.
This announcement coincides with a holiday schedule for RIPTA services observed today in recognition of Labor Day, during which all RIPTA offices are closed except for the Newport Transportation Center. Flex services will not operate today, although route 203, which serves the University of Rhode Island, Narragansett, and South Kingstown, will run on a Sunday schedule. The Providence shuttle to the Newport Ferry is also operating on a holiday timetable.
Looking ahead, public hearings are set to commence shortly regarding the proposed service cuts that affect 58 bus routes. These discussions follow a previous request made to the board to reconsider its budget shortfall strategies. Normand Benoit was the only dissenting vote against the approved plan, suggesting that the proposed cuts could be rescinded if additional state funding were secured. Board Chairman Peter Alviti has emphasized the need for a balanced budget while aiming to sustain the quality of the transit system.
In addition to the service cuts, a multi-year fare adjustment plan is under consideration. The current $2-per-ride fare has not changed in 15 years, leading to concerns among public advocates who warn that fare increases could disproportionately impact low-income users.
In summary, RIPTA faces significant challenges as it attempts to balance its budget while preserving essential public transit services. The implications of these cuts on the community remain to be fully seen, and the upcoming public discussions will be vital in addressing the concerns of riders and advocates alike.
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Additional Resources
- ABC 6: RIPTA to Run Holiday Schedule Monday
- What’s Up Newp: RIPTA to Run Holiday Schedule Monday with Newport Ferry Shuttle Switches
- WPRI: RIPTA Board Approves Plan Including Service Reductions and Fare Increases
- WROR: Providence-Newport Ferry Returns for 10th Season of Service
- Boston Globe: RI RIPTA Plan to Cover Deficit and Avoid Cuts
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
