Officials to hold press conference on RIPTA bus transit hub

0PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Officials will hold a press conference today in opposition of a new bus station to replace Kennedy Plaza in Providence.

Earlier this year, the Rhode Island Transportation Authority (RIPTA) approved a $16.9 million contract with a consortium of six Rhode Island-based businesses called Next Wave Partners for a new transit hub.

Next Wave Partners would be in charge of constructing and designing the new hub, which RIPTA has said they hope will be the primary bus spot.

Providence City Councilors have since voiced their opposition to the hub, as they noted in a recent meting that the Kennedy Plaza location should be front and center.

RIPTA has said that there would be still be a presence at Kennedy Plaza for transportation, but the new hub would be located elsewhere.

They are still currently accepting feedback from the public on the matter.

The press conference today will be introducing a new bill that lawmakers said will protect taxpayers and bus riders from the new relocation project.

Representative Enrique Sanchez has commented that the bill could pause the project unless terms are changed by RIPTA.