Statement from RIPTA interim CEO Christopher Durand on the Providence Transit Center

It is a pivotal time for transit and for the state. We are working hard every day to ensure that RIPTA is more responsive to the needs of all Rhode Islanders. We’ve invested heavily in our workforce development program to resolve our long-standing driver shortage. I am happy to announce that we have overcome our previous staffing shortage and are now focused on aggressively implementing service improvements that will make the system more reliable and attractive to all.

We are focused on enhancing passenger information and are actively exploring ways to build on recent investments made at key locations like the Pawtucket-Central Falls Center and CCRI Warwick, including the integration of real-time screens.

Part of our efforts to improve the rider experience includes the development a new state-of-the-art transit center in Providence. We embarked on a comprehensive process, exploring numerous locations and engaging the public through numerous meetings and surveys.

Based on a thorough analysis and consideration of public feedback, we are no longer considering the I-195 parcel as a potential site. We are evaluating several potential locations, with high priority given to those in close proximity to the Providence Train Station. The Next Wave team and RIPTA have been seeking additional engineering information, which will allow Next Wave to make a more informed formal recommendation for a potential site.

Once we have a recommended site, we will hold an additional round of public input opportunities to share the ideas that have been developed after much work this summer.

Visit www.RIPTA.com/TransitCenter for more information and updates.