RIPTA delays bus route cuts after McKee intervention. What comes next?

The RIPTA board postponed a vote on cutting bus routes to address a $17 million budget deficit, responding to Governor Dan McKee's request for alternative solutions. McKee emphasized the need for a balanced proposal that includes fare hikes, administrative cuts, and the cancellation of the least-used routes. Current proposals suggest eliminating 16 routes identified in an efficiency study, but these cuts alone will not bridge the budget gap. McKee also urged RIPTA to seek more federal funding through the Job Access and Reverse Commute program. The board expressed concerns about the lack of positive options, regardless of when decisions are made.

As management prepares new cost-saving scenarios, they aim to create a more sustainable financial future for RIPTA. The potential for additional state funding remains open, contingent on a revised proposal. The situation highlights ongoing challenges in public transit funding amidst fiscal constraints.