RIPTA
How to Use the Transit App
updated
Psst - You can earn big rewards for those sustainable trips! Download the Drive Less RI app to log your green trips and enter to win our weekly gift card giveaways.
Many Rhode Islanders are familiar with the East Side Tunnel, a landmark piece of infrastructure rich with transit history that runs below Providence's College Hill neighborhood. Long before RIPTA began using it for bus service, the East Side Tunnel served as a way for street cars to navigate the neighborhood's steep hills as they transported passengers from North Main Street to Thayer Street. In October 2024, our team completed renovations of the tunnel, with this month marking one year since the restoration of this historic Providence icon.
We are proud to present this short film about our restoration efforts. Cue the lights, make some popcorn, and follow us underground as we explore the tunnel throughout the years.
CREDITS:
Produced by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority
Director, Camera Operator, Editor:
Nicky Mudryy
Interview:
Chris Durand, RIPTA CEO
Jack Plouffe, RIPTA Project Manager
Peter Ginaitt, RIPTA Environmental Affairs and Safety Officer
Speakers:
Jack Reed, U.S. Senator
Gabe Amo, U.S. Representative
K. Joseph Shekarchi, Speaker of the Rhode Island House of Representatives
Brett Smiley, Mayor of Providence
Eric Papetti, FTA Region 1 Director of Planning and Program Development
RIPTA Coordination:
Cristy Raposo Perry
Production Assistants:
Jane Williams
Sara Furbush
Peter Michaud
Jim Vincent
For more information, visit https://www.RIPTA.com/Tunnel.
RIPTA bike rack? No problem! This bike rider wants you to know how easy it is to rack ‘n ride with this online tutorial: bit.ly/3V0sKdQ
Thanks for riding with us, Alana!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #TransitTuesday #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI #RiderOfTheWeek
We caught up with Cindy who rides RIPTA to Amica Insurance where she works in sales and client services. Cindy loves her relaxing bus commute. When she’s not headed to work, Cindy rides the bus to Roger Williams Park, a route she is familiar with having spent years riding RIPTA to the park as a child!
Amica Insurance is a member of Wave to Work, RIPTA’s commuter benefits program that makes it easy for companies of any size to subsize or set aside pre-tax dollars from employee paychecks to pay for transit fare. Learn more at RIPTA.com/WaveToWork.
Happy #TransitTuesday, Cindy!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI #RiderOfTheWeek
Anastasiia, her husband, and their three young children live a car-free lifestyle in Rhode Island. The Exeter-based Inomura family rides RIPTA everywhere from the grocery store, hospital, and pediatrician to parks, playgrounds, and playdates.
But it’s not always about the destination - Anastasiia treats each trip as a mini-lesson to teach her kids social skills, planning, and responsibility in a safe and supportive environment.
“RIPTA buses have opened up the world for us and made it possible to live a very active life,” says Anastasiia. “We live in Exeter, but thanks to RIPTA, we’ve visited almost every corner of the state accessible by bus.”
Happy #TransitTuesday, Anastasiia!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI #RiderOfTheWeek
Every Tuesday (or Wednesday when we miss the bus), we’re highlighting passengers who ride RIPTA as part of our new series.
This week we met Sean who rides RIPTA to his job as Assistant Director of Alumni Relations - Affinity Programs at Providence College. On his way to work, he enjoys spending his time catching up with friends and the news.
Are you a fellow Friar? Providence College students, faculty, and staff can ride for FREE anywhere in Rhode Island by showing their school ID when boarding the bus.
See you on board!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI #RiderOfTheWeek
Dally rides the bus to her job at Roger Williams Park Zoo where she works as a horticulturist, tending to the plants and keeping the zoo grounds looking beautiful.
Before that, Dally rode the bus to Rhode Island College where she attended school. Her favorite part about commuting by bus? Passing time by playing Pokémon on her Game Boy.
See you on the bus, Dally!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI #RiderOfTheWeek
Welcome to our new series highlighting real Rhode Islanders who use public transit to get to work.
The goal? To share authentic commuting stories that inspire others who may be reconsidering their car commutes to:
💸 Save money on gas
🚗 Free up time spent driving
🌎 Prevent carbon emissions from warming our planet
This week we caught up with Zach on his commute from downtown @cityofprovidence to RIPTA headquarters where he works as a Principal Planner in our Long Range Planning Department.
See you at work, Zach!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI
Marisa rides RIPTA Route 65x to downtown Providence where she works as an Impact Manager for City Year - an educational non-profit that provides academic and interpersonal mentorship to students across Rhode Island.
After riding the bus for a month while her car was in the shop, Marisa came to enjoy her bus commute, which she describes as less stressful than sitting in a traffic jam and giving her more time to enjoy her favorite books.
Her tip for first-time riders? Don’t be intimidated on your first ride - from the bus drivers to the passengers, everyone Marisa has met aboard the bus is friendly and more than willing to help her get to her destination.
Happy #TransitTuesday, Marisa!
#GoByTransit #PublicTransit #Transit #Buses #RhodeIsland #Commute #RIPTA #RideRIPTA #BusSpotting #Providence #ProvidenceRI #RiderOfTheWeek
What's so exciting about the new vans? The low slope of the ramp and the flat bus door entryway makes boarding safer for riders with disabilities. The vans also feature a new type of wheelchair lift with gas springs that simplify the lowering and lifting process for the van operator.
And just like our fixed-route buses, these new vans kneel, making boarding easier. Plus, passengers will enjoy the sleek, spacious cabin that the new vans offer!
To learn more about RIPTA's RIde paratransit program, visit: RIPTA.com/Ride
Introducing Bus Buddy, our brand-new program that pairs new riders with a friendly and knowledgeable RIPTA staff member to guide you through every step of riding the bus.
It's easy! Meet your Bus Buddy at a bus stop in your neighborhood, then ride to a destination of your choice together. Along the way your Bus Buddy will show you everything you need to know to ride the bus, answering questions like:
- How do I know I'm waiting at the right bus stop?
- How do I pay my bus fare?
- When do I pull the yellow cord?
- Which door do I use to exit the bus?
Book your Bus Buddy trip today! Visit RIPTA.com/BusBuddy or email us at busbuddy@ripta.com.
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools
Timestamps:
0:09 - Creating a RIPTA RIde - MTM Go account
1:17 - Requesting a paratransit ride
2:40 - Setting up notifications
2:51 - Canceling a trip request
3:02 - RIde Customer Service information
Download the RIPTA RIde – MTM Go app today!
Apple App Store: apps.apple.com/us/app/ripta-ride-mtm-go/id6737628106
Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.mtmlink.transit.ripta
For more information, visit ripta.com/RIPTARIdeApp.
After more than four decades of dedicated service, Thomas G. Cute Jr. is retiring from RIPTA, closing out an extraordinary 45-year career marked by leadership, advocacy and a deep commitment to public service.
Tom began his journey at RIPTA on March 17, 1980. Through hard work and consistency, he rose to become the #2 ranked bus operator and #3 in overall seniority across the entire organization—an incredible accomplishment that speaks to his longevity and respect among peers.
In 2002, Tom showcased his driving skills by winning RIPTA’s Bus Roadeo, a driving competition for bus operators, and went on to represent the Authority at the national competition held that year in Las Vegas. His commitment to excellence extended beyond the wheel; from 1998 to 2000, he contributed to both the Scheduling and Training Departments, helping train future operators and prepare them for their Commercial Driver’s Licenses.
A strong advocate for his colleagues, Tom was elected to the ATU Executive Board in 1991 and again from 1993 to 1996. His union leadership continued as he served as Vice President from 2002 to 2014, and later as President/Business Agent from 2015 through 2020. In every role, Tom was known for his steady guidance and dedication to improving the working conditions for all RIPTA employees.
Throughout his career, Tom remained committed to both his fellow employees and the public he served every day. On the last day of his shift, he was surprised by dozens of friends, family members, and coworkers who came to celebrate as he pulled into RIPTA headquarters for the final time.
Congratulations, Tom, and thank you for 45 years of remarkable service behind the wheel!
For more information about RIPTA, visit https://www.ripta.com.
For more information on how to rack and ride safely and to learn how you can get more involved with biking in Rhode Island, visit RIPTA.com/Bike.
Where will the bus pick me up?
There are six designated bus stops along the new RIFC soccer service route. Fans can board the bus from these locations:
- Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center (Stop B)
- RIFC Reserved Parking Lot M16
- RIFC Reserved Parking Lot M12 (Psst - Parking in M13, M14, or M15? This is your closest bus stop.)
- RIFC Reserved Parking Lot M7 (Psst - Parking in M8, M9, M10, or M11? This is your closest bus stop.)
- RIFC Reserved Parking Lot D4 (Psst - Parking in D5 or D6? This is your closest bus stop.)
- 23 Exchange Street, Pawtucket
Where will the bus drop me off?
The bus will drop off fans at Ivan Perez Memorial Park - a two minute walk from the stadium.
How do I know I'm boarding the right bus?
Board any bus with Route R-1636 shown on the overhead LED sign. Look out for bus stop signs and RIPTA staff to show you where to board.
What does it cost, and what time does the service start?
This free game day service will start operating three hours before kickoff and continue until one hour after the game. Buses will loop continuously between the six designated bus stops every 8 - 10 minutes.
Is this service ADA accessible?
Yes! All RIPTA buses are ADA accessible, so any bus that you board can get you from one of the six bus stops to Ivan Perez Memorial Park (about a 2 minute walk down a sidewalk to stadium entrance).
Can I get off anywhere on the loop?
No, the bus can only drop you off at one of the official bus stop locations. Riders may not board or exit the bus at any other locations.
It's easy to ride RIPTA to the new RIFC Centreville Bank Stadium! For detailed directions to the bus stop closest to you, visit RIPTA.com/RIFC.
Visit Bike Newport and learn about their new "Get There By Bike" initiative: bikenewportri.org
Hey Newport! 👋 Do you bike to work or school?
Join us for FREE refreshments, swag, and good vibes this FRIDAY, May 2 as we team up with Bike Newport, RI to celebrate everyone on Aquidneck Island who pedals to work and school. It's all part of RIPTA's No Pollute Challenge during National #BikeToWork Month!
Stop by on your commute to:
🍫 Grab refreshments from Boxed Water Is Better and snacks from Beautiful Day + A.B. Munroe Dairy
🚲 Pick up free bike-themed t-shirts, keychains, and other giveaways
🎁 Enter to win cool prizes like a gift card to NBX Bikes, Manhattan Portage messenger bags, Cleverhood ponchos, tune-ups from Friendly Bicycle, and Green Guru ankle straps
Sign up for Bike To Work Month 2025 by creating an account on our NEW transit + rewards app, Drive Less RI! Visit RIPTA.com/BikeToWork to learn more.
Already have an account on our old app, Commuter Resource RI? Simply download the latest update for the app and login using your same username and password. No need to create a new account.
For more information, visit our website at https://www.RIPTA.com
For more information, visit our website at https://www.RIPTA.com
With multiple projects already in the works, our 2025 is off to a strong start. And while we are excited to work on these projects in the new year, what we look forward to the most in 2025 is continuing to provide reliable and affordable public transit for Rhode Islanders.
For an accessible audio description version of this video, click here: youtu.be/6EEPj2h7Vv4
For more information, visit our website at https://www.RIPTA.com.
RIPTA runs additional service to Hope High School during the school year. Board Route 1 at 7:24 AM in Kennedy Plaza at Bus Stop I. Remember to read the overhead signs to know where you're going! Once you've got your Monthly Pass ready, show it to the RIPTA bus driver and go. It's that simple to ride with RIPTA!
Heading home? Board Route 19, 27, 50, 56 or the R-Line at 2:40 pm and ride through to your destination! For service to Kennedy Plaza, use Route 1. You can then transfer to your RIPTA route from Kennedy Plaza. Use the Trip Planner on RIPTA.com to know what routes to travel on!
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools.
RIPTA runs additional service to Dr. Jorge Alvarez High School during the school year. Board Route 22 at 7:21 AM in Kennedy Plaza at Bus Stop C. Remember to read the overhead signs to know where you're going! Once you've got your Monthly Pass ready, show it to the RIPTA bus driver and go. It's that simple to ride with RIPTA!
Heading home? Board Route 19 or 27 at 2:45 pm, or Route 92 at 2:50 pm, and ride through to your destination! For service to Kennedy Plaza, use Route 20 or 22. You can then transfer to your RIPTA route from Kennedy Plaza. Use the Trip Planner on RIPTA.com to know what routes to travel on!
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools.
RIPTA runs additional service to E-Cubed Academy during the school year. Board Route 58 at 7:19 AM in Kennedy Plaza at Bus Stop G. Remember to read the overhead signs to know where you're going! Once you've got your Monthly Pass ready, show it to the RIPTA bus driver and go. It's that simple to ride with RIPTA!
Heading home? Board Route 27 at 2:38 pm and ride through to your destination! For service to Kennedy Plaza, use Route 50 or 58. You can then transfer to your RIPTA route from Kennedy Plaza. Use the Trip Planner on RIPTA.com to know what routes to travel on!
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools
RIPTA runs additional service to Mt. Pleasant High School during the school year. Board Route 92 West at 7:16 AM in Kennedy Plaza at Bus Stop D. Remember to read the overhead signs to know where you're going! Once you've got your Monthly Pass ready, show it to the RIPTA bus driver and go. It's that simple to ride with RIPTA!
Heading home? Board Route 20, 31, 50 or the R-Line at 2:40 pm and ride through to your destination! For service to Kennedy Plaza, use Route 92 East. You can then transfer to your RIPTA route from Kennedy Plaza. Use the Trip Planner on RIPTA.com to know what routes to travel on!
For more information, visit ripta.com/PVDschools.


