RIPTA extends free fare pilot program through Sept. 30

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The  Rhode Island Public Transit Authority said Wednesday that its R-Line free fare program will now end on Oct. 1.

The department said the program was originally scheduled to end on Aug. 31 but was extended to allow time to notify passengers of the change to the rapid bus route which connects Providence and Pawtucket.

The cost of the program exceed the $2.5 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds allocated to it.

“Given the annual cost of this pilot and RIPTA’s current budget outlook, it is not financially feasible for RIPTA to continue this program indefinitely,” the department said.

When the program ends passengers will need to pay the full fare for rides, which is $2 per boarding with cash or $2 for one hour of unlimited rides with Wave.

This includes paratransit passengers, which is $4 per trip.