March 6, 2014

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) and Representative John G. Edwards, Senior Deputy Majority Leader, along with Senator Louis P. DiPalma (District 12), Senator Christopher Scott Ottiano (District 11), Senator Walter S. Felag, Jr. (District 10), and Representative Dennis M. Canario (District 71) will hold a community meeting to discuss proposed transit service to the Tiverton area. The meeting is scheduled for 7pm on Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at the Tiverton Town Hall, located at 343 Highland Road in Tiverton.

“I am pleased that public bus service will be resuming for my constituents in Tiverton,” said Representative Edwards. While the service is limited, it is a good start and will keep our residents connected to the rest of Rhode Island.”

In June 2008, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) placed weight limit restrictions on the Sakonnet River Bridge. As a result, RIPTA was forced to detour Route 60 (Providence/Newport) in Portsmouth and Tiverton; RIPTA has not provided fixed-route service to the Tiverton area since. Prior to weight restrictions being imposed on the Sakonnet River Bridge, RIPTA provided service to Providence from the Fish Road Park N’ Ride lot.

With the reopening of the Sakonnet River Bridge combined with passenger demand and a Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) which assessed the demand for transit service throughout the state, RIPTA investigated options for reinstating transit service to Tiverton in a more cost efficient manner. RIPTA held a community meeting on March 18, 2013 soliciting public comment on the need for transit in this area and how to best provide service.

RIPTA began implementation of its COA results, throughout the state, in Fall 2013. With the upcoming Route 60 (Providence/Newport) COA changes scheduled for June 2014, RIPTA determined it could provide commuter service to Tiverton with a new route that would provide connections to both Providence and Newport.

The meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities. RIPTA will provide interpreter services for the deaf and hearing impaired, provided such a request is made at least 48 hours prior to the hearing date. A request for this service can be made in writing or by calling (401) 784-9500, x242.

For information on RIPTA services, passengers may call 781-9400 or visit ripta.com.