The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has launched a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the joint development of a new transit centre on Dorrance Street in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island.
The new transit centre will act as RIPTA’s central bus depot, allowing the existing Kennedy Plaza to serve a reduced number of routes.
The new facility will initially serve three million transit users annually and will be built with the potential for anticipated future growth.
It will feature a temperature-controlled passenger arrival and seating area, as well as multimodal accommodations for cyclists.
RIPTA is also considering the potential of creating a public meeting space with an open-air terrace, plus other amenities to serve the wider community.
In contrast to Kennedy Plaza, which is spread out across an urban park, the new transit centre will provide a single organised location.
Governor McKee said:The new Transit Center will modernise Rhode Island’s transportation system, improve the experience for riders, lessen our impact on the environment and create a more functional downtown. Bringing our transit system into the 21st century will attract more riders, reduce cars and emissions on our roadways, and create more opportunities for mixed-use development. A modern transit system is a key factor in attracting businesses with new jobs and economic development to our state.
The RFP invites applicants to submit proposals to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the transit centre through a progressive joint development project delivery model.
Responses are due by 17 April 2023 and a winning bid will be selected in the spring.
Scott Avedisian, RIPTA CEO said:We are excited to move ahead with a state-of-the-art transit center that will benefit our passengers, the environment and our economy. This progressive RFP model will allow us to tap into the expertise of industry experts to develop a world-class transit center to accommodate a growing transit system while also maximising the opportunity for community input regarding the project.
