RIPTA Buses Return To Full Capacity

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island Public Transit Authority buses are back to operating at full capacity, the department announced this week. Capacity has been limited on all public transit vehicles throughout the pandemic to allow physical distancing between passengers.

The decision was made following the latest guidance from the state and the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, CEO Scott Avedisian said.

"We are proud that we never cut service throughout the pandemic, and we are happy to now be operating at full capacity," Avedisian said.

A federal mandate from the Transportation Safety Adminstration still requires passengers on all public transportation wear masks, including buses, airplanes and trains. As such, all RIPTA passengers must wear a face covering regardless of vaccination status. The mandate, which went into effect in February, was extended until at least Sept. 13.

Anyone under the age of 2 or who cannot wear a face covering for health reasons are exempt from the mandate. RIPTA requires anyone who needs an exemption for a medical reason to reach out to the department before riding. Call customer service at 401-784-9500, ext. 2012 to request one.