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RIPTA Starts Program in Hope Valley Region; New Bus Service Reaches First-Time Riders
Since launching its latest route on Nov. 13, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has reported “a really warm and welcoming response” from local officials and residents alike for beginning to cover previously unserved regions of Rhode Island, according to Barbara Polichetti, director of public affairs.
The pilot program currently operates only on Fridays between 9 a.m.-2 p.m., running on a loop with approximately 20 stops, including local stores and a health services center in the Westerly-Hope Valley area. Riders also can request in advance custom stops within three-quarters of a mile of designated stops.
The route uses a 16-passenger van from RIPTA’s RIde paratransit program during a time when the vehicle is not in use for that service.
Polichetti explained that the route connects villages separated by rural land and that local governments reached out to RIPTA for a way to meet the transportation needs of their residents.
“Since we’re using a vehicle already located in the area, this program is a cost-effective way for RIPTA to offer these residents a new transportation option and we’re very excited about it,” she said. “We are always looking for ways to assist people who live in areas that are not populated enough to have regular fixed-route service or even our Flex Service. Based on the reception this pilot program receives, it could serve as a template that RIPTA can use to offer options like this elsewhere in Rhode Island."
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| On opening day, residents of the rural Westerly-Hope Valley region of Rhode Island try out RIPTA's newest service, which uses a paratransit vehicle. |
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