February 7, 2023

Press Releases

Providence, Rhode Island, February 7, 2023…… The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) announced plans today to construct a new bus shelter honoring civil rights icon Rosa Parks. The bus shelter will be located in front of the Powers Building at the intersection of Smith Street and Park Street in Providence, across from the State House. 

Rosa Parks, known as the mother of the modern-day civil rights movement in America, was an African American woman who refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in 1955. December 1, 2023 will mark the 68th anniversary of her act of courage and civil disobedience. 

“As we celebrate Transit Equity Day today – just days after Rosa Parks’ birthday- I am honored to announce that RIPTA will construct a bus shelter to honor her and the civil rights movement,” said Scott Avedisian, RIPTA CEO. “This bus shelter will serve as a permanent dedication to Rosa Parks in honor of her brave fight to provide equitable transportation and her role in launching the modern civil rights movement that helped end legal segregation in America. 

RIPTA will work on the construction of this bus shelter in close partnership with the City of Providence, the State and local community organizations. 

For more information on schedules or other RIPTA services, please call 781-9400 or visit RIPTA.com.