RIPTA free ride pilot program to end with new year

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (WLNE) — RIPTA announced that the pilot Ride Free Central Falls program will end on the scheduled date of December 31, 2023.

Starting on January 1, 2024, the full fare for Central Falls and Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center must be paid by passengers.

In effect since March 2022, the program sought to enhance accessibility and affordability of public transportation while testing and utilizing geofencing technology.

“We appreciate the support and engagement of the Central Falls community and look forward to continuing our journey toward an even more efficient and user-friendly transit system,” said RIPTA CEO Scott Avedisian.

Central Falls was selected as an ideal test area due to its high population density over a small geographic area.