Smiley, RIPTA to bring additional police officers to Kennedy Plaza

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Providence Mayor Brett Smiley and the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority announced Wednesday that additional police officers will be patrolling Kennedy Plaza in an effort to keep downtown safer.

Scott Avedisian, RIPTA’s CEO, said that in recent months, Providence has increased its police presence during high traffic times and that it will be further expanded with the new partnership.

“The safety of our riders, whether on board or at a transit center, is a priority for RIPTA,” said Avedisian.

He said RIPTA will reallocate $100,000 previously used for private security towards the additional officers.

“With these additional investments, we are making our Downtown safer and a more welcoming place for the many residents, businesses, students, riders and visitors that pass through it each day,” said Smiley.