March 29, 2023

Press Releases

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) Chief Executive Officer Scott Avedisian and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announced additional resources to increase the presence of Providence Police officers and Downtown Improvement District (DID) safety ambassadors, dedicated to keeping Downtown safe and welcoming for all individuals.

In recent months, the City of Providence has increased the presence of Providence Police Department (PPD) officers in Kennedy Plaza during high traffic times and their presence will be further expanded as RIPTA reallocates $100,000 in funds previously used for private security towards additional police coverage for the space. RIPTA will allocate additional funding for an increased presence of DID safety ambassadors who will expand their footprint to include Kennedy Plaza.

“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 Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “Together, we are creating a safer downtown and as a city, we will continue to expand our partnerships with community organizations to provide better enforcement and outreach here and in other neighborhoods. I want to thank Governor McKee and RIPTA for their commitment to this important work.”

“The safety of our riders, whether on board or at a transit center, is a priority for RIPTA,” said RIPTA CEO Scott Avedisian. “This partnership will increase DID safety ambassadors and police presence, deter crime and hopefully grow rider confidence in our transit system.”