Details of RIPTA Service Cutbacks Announced

Like many public transportation programs throughout the country, the Rhode Island Public Transportation Agency relies on public subsidies, usually from the state. Unfortunately, also like most public transit networks, RIPTA is swimming in the red, and the outlook for the future isn’t any brighter.

A RIPTA bus on one of the many lines that will either be reduced or eliminated entirely.

For the fiscal year, RIPTA is approximately $12 million short of the $103 million budget. The agency, which has stated that they would like to expand the system to serve the whole state rather than simply the urban centers, is looking at major service cutbacks that would result in the shortening or elimination in 20 percent of the routes. If this holds true, as many as 4.7 million rides would be terminated, and 50 of the regular lines would be affected.

Unfortunately, this move will only help cover a portion of the deficit. Other moves could be to reduce the number of buses and to reduce the amount of weekend and night rides available. Of the cities and towns served, four of them would be completely cut off from the public transit system (Tiverton, Gloucester, Scituate, and Burrillville).

The agency originally got itself into the red by relying on revenue sources that have become somewhat unreliable. Revenue primarily comes from the states’ gas tax, which has never really been adequate when it comes to covering costs. The recent spike in the cost of diesel fuel has also put a hurting on the agency.

As required by law, RIPTA will hold public hearings regarding the cutbacks in six communities. They are as follows:

• Narragansett Town Hall – September 26
• Warwick City Hall – September 29
• Barrington Public Library – September 30
• Newport City Hall – September 30
• Smithfield Senior Center – October 1
• DaVinci Community Center (Providence) – October 2

Source & Image: Providence Journal