RIPTA raises driver wage

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Public Transit Authorities voted today to approve a bargaining agreement with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Division 618 that would increase driver’s starting wage.

The new wage will increase from $21.71 per hour to $25.33 per hour, starting this week.

In addition, the top pay step of of existing ATU salaries will increase by $1.00, with lower pay steps adjusting accordingly, according to RIPTA.

ATU 618 represents RIPTA’s 488 current fixed-route drivers.

RIPTA said that the current pay agreement does not expire until June 30, 2025. The contact was reopened on RIPTA’s behalf in response to the nationwide shortage of licensed commercial drivers.

Scott Avedisian, RIPTA’s Chief Executive Officer said, “This crucial wage increase benefits not only our drivers, but our passengers as well — this will enable us to attract and retain drivers, ensuring that the public can rely on RIPTA to be there when the bus schedule says we are going to be there.”

Last month, the authority announced proposed statewide service reductions as a direct response to the driver shortage.

The nationwide labor shortage has a direct impact on the level of service that RIPTA can provide, the authority shared.

RIPTA is also proposing to recalibrate its schedules to ensure that services are accurate and reliable for passengers. A plan to reinstate service levels will take place once the workforce permits.

A job fair for drivers will be held on Friday, March 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at RIPTA headquarters located at 705 Elmwood Avenue, Providence.

Applicants can also apply online at RIPTA.com/careers.

All new bus operators will receive up to eight weeks of paid training, including a commercial driver license (CDL) certification.