August 4, 2015

Power has been restored to the headquarters of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) on Elmwood Avenue.

Now that phones are back in service, passengers in the RIde program can call in to make appointments for trips they need to make tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5, 2015. All RIde vans were dispatched for Tuesday’s appointments even though a severe summer storm left RIPTA without power early in the morning.

Although the RIde vehicles were operational, passengers were not able to call in to schedule future trips because phone service was out. RIde is the paratransit service for the state, providing door-to-door transportation for eligible passengers in compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Much of the state was hit with severe thunderstorms and high winds early Tuesday morning, leaving more than 100,000 people with power.  In addition to the RIde vehicles, RIPTA was able to get all fixed-route buses on the road, but many delays and detours were reported due to downed trees, traffic and road closures.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience,” said Barbara Polichetti, Director of Public Affairs for RIPTA. “And we’re hoping for a less hectic afternoon.”