RIPTA Board Delays Vote on $10M Service Cuts After Governor Intervention

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) Board of Directors has postponed its vote on proposed widespread bus service cuts after Governor Dan McKee sent a last-minute letter urging a more balanced approach. McKee recommended the board focus on eliminating or restructuring low-performing routes, reducing management and administrative expenses, maximizing federal funding, and implementing fare adjustments aligned with inflation instead of across-the-board cuts. The agency is facing a $10 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026 and initially proposed cutting or reducing service on most routes, which sparked public concern and a series of hearings. RIPTA CEO Christopher Durand highlighted the need for service changes by October 1 to capture savings and mentioned ongoing exploration of fare increases and workforce adjustments. Board Chair Peter Alviti Jr. acknowledged the decision to delay the vote allows time to consider alternatives, including insights from a recent efficiency study and the governor’s recommendations. Governor McKee expressed openness to identifying additional short-term resources and welcomed the board's decision to pursue a more balanced plan.