RIPTA Closes Kennedy Plaza, Newport Transportation Center

NEWPORT, RI — In an effort to slow the spread of the new coronavirus, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority has made the decision to close two major facilities to the public. Effective immediately, both the Newport Transportation and Visitors Center and Kennedy Plaza will close to the public.

The indoor waiting area in Newport will close its doors at 6 p.m. on Wednesday and will not reopen until officials determine it is appropriate to reopen.

While the Blackstone Valley Visitors Center in Pawtucket is closed for the time being, RIPTA service is still running there at this time.

In Providence, meanwhile, Kennedy Plaza's waiting area, ticket office and photo identification office will close to the public, along with the department's headquarters on Elmwood Avenue. Passengers can purchase tickets at the outdoor vending machine kiosks.

Scott Avedisian, RIPTA's CEO, said that expiration dates for low or reduced fare passengers will be extended by at least one month. The policy will be re-evaluated in April. Because their passes will not work in fareboxes, these passengers are asked to show their card to the driver when boarding.

Earlier this month, RIPTA said it was stepping up cleaning procedures on buses and in facilities to help keep passengers safe.

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