February 13, 2015

Press Releases

With another winter storm headed for the area this weekend, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is making necessary preparations and plans to provide its regular weekend service on Saturday, February 14, 2015 and Sunday, February 15, 2015. Blizzard conditions and slick roads are likely to result in delays or detours so passengers are asked to please check RIPTA’s website (www.ripta.com) or social media outlets (Facebook  @RideRIPTA, Twitter @RIPTA_RI)  for updated  information  in order to avoid waiting at stops longer than necessary.

This is particularly important given forecasts of strong northerly winds of 25 to 30 miles per hour and gusts up to 40 miles per hour in some areas.  Temperatures are expected to be in the teens Saturday and Sunday and then plummet below zero Sunday night into Monday.

“Rhode Islanders are urged to remain inside during periods of extreme cold,” Peter Gaynor, Director of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) said in a statement posted on RIEMA’s website.  “If you must venture outside during periods of severe cold weather, dress for the conditions by limiting the exposure of bare skin to the cold. Wear proper hats and gloves, cover your face and neck, and dress in warm layers.”

“Our riders have been very understanding of the traffic delays and other problems that a severe winter like this brings,” said Barbara Polichetti, Director of Public Affairs for RIPTA. “We appreciate their patience and ask everyone to dress appropriately and be safe as we work to keep service running during this latest storm.”

Passengers also are strongly advised to monitor news reports and to sign up for electronic updates from RIPTA at http://www.ripta.com/detours-news.