Rhode Island Public Transit Authority is embarking on an ambitious journey to redefine public transit in the state with the creation of a state-of-the-art transit center in Providence. The state supports the idea that Rhode Islanders deserve a safe, modern transit hub equipped with cutting-edge amenities, and RIPTA is committed to making this vision a reality.

Through a conscious public engagement process, the project is ensuring that the new facility meets the needs and expectations of riders, advocates and other stakeholders.

The transit hub project formally launched a year ago and is progressing through a series of carefully planned phases. Currently, RIPTA is in Task 2 of the preliminary service agreement with Next Wave, a phase that prioritizes extensive public engagement. Hundreds of Rhode Islanders have already participated in surveys and meetings, offering valuable insights into the future of the Providence Transit Center.

The proposed transit center project stems from a $35 million bond approved by Rhode Island voters in 2014 for “mass transit improvements,” with $22 million allocated to RIPTA. The funding underscores the state’s commitment to advancing its public transit infrastructure. Christopher Durand, RIPTA’s chief executive officer, explained: “We embarked on a comprehensive process, exploring numerous locations and engaging the public through numerous meetings and surveys. We are evaluating several potential locations, with high priority given to those already in close proximity to the Providence Train Station.”

In the summer of 2024, public engagement efforts culminated in a short list of potential sites. As of December, the potential location was still in discussion.

Once a formal site recommendation is made, the project will advance to the design and engineering phase, anticipated to begin within the next 12 months. Construction will follow thereafter.

Public input has been integral to shaping the project’s trajectory. RIPTA’s public engagement initiative has revealed widespread support for a transit center that enhances safety, convenience and multimodal connectivity. Durand highlighted the importance of these community-driven efforts.

“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.” He reiterated the importance of the public’s reception during the conversation.

Proximity to the Providence Train Station will fostering seamless connections between local and regional transit systems. The strategic location also positions the project to leverage additional funding opportunities through programs such as the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act and Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing.

The new Providence Transit Center is part of a broader vision outlined in the state’s Transit Master Plan, a comprehensive strategy that aims to enhance multimodal connectivity, improve rider experiences and support regional goals such as reducing emissions and fostering economic growth.

The TMP aligns closely with RIPTA’s Metro Connector Study, which is exploring rapid transit options including light rail and bus rapid transit to connect key communities within metropolitan Providence.

Durand emphasized the long-term potential of the project. “In addition to the funding opportunities that a bus hub would have in close proximity to a train station, the recent investments in infrastructure improvements on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor will further improve travel efficiency, increase ridership potential and support seamless connections between regional and local transit systems.”

Safety and efficiency are another aspect at the heart of the new transit center’s design. The facility will feature enhanced lighting, an emphasis on pedestrian safety and a layout that minimizes street crossings for riders. By interconnecting the transit center with other major transportation hubs, including the Providence Train Station, Kennedy Plaza and the Rhode Island Convention Center, the project will streamline transfers and optimize the rider experience.

As RIPTA and Next Wave move closer to selecting a site, the momentum behind the Providence Transit Center continues to grow. With strong support from Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation and the guidance of RIPTA’s Board of Directors, the project is poised to deliver a transformative transit solution that will benefit the community for generations to come.

“We’re grateful to the congressional delegation that has been very supportive of multimodal projects. They will continue to make investments in these types of initiatives,” said Durand. “Once Next Wave completes its thorough analysis, we look forward to sharing its informed formal recommendation for a potential site later this fall.”

The Providence Transit Center is more than a construction project; it represents a commitment to creating a transit system that is safe, efficient and future-focused. Rhode Islanders can look forward to a modern hub that supports their mobility needs while advancing the state’s broader transit and sustainability goals.

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