May 26, 2022

Press Releases

Newport, RI, May 26, 2022 – The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority announced the launch of a free “Hop-On Hop-Off” bus service promotion in Newport beginning Friday, May 27, 2022. 

The free service, funded by Discover Newport and the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island, offers transportation around Newport to tourist destinations and beaches. This includes all service on Route 67 (Bellevue/Salve Regina Univ.) and Route 68 (CCRI/Memorial Blvd./First Beach). The service will be free through Monday, October 31, 2022. 

“This exciting partnership is a creative solution to help alleviate traffic congestion during the peak tourist season, while also benefiting the local community,” said Scott Avedisian, RIPTA Chief Executive Officer. “I applaud Discover Newport and the Episcopal Diocese for making transit more accessible to both tourists and residents alike.” 

Route 67 (Bellevue/Salve Regina Univ.) 

Service on Route 67 runs from Friday, May 27 through Monday, October 31, 2022. Passengers can ride Route 67 to popular tourist destinations such as the Newport Mansions, Cliff Walk, Audrain Automobile Museum, International Tennis Hall of Fame and more. 

NEW! Route 68 (CCRI/Memorial Blvd./First Beach) 

Route 68 service runs Saturday, June 18 through October 31, 2022. The new route will connect neighborhoods in the north end of Newport to local beaches. 

“Having a free circulating trolley is an important step towards helping increase mobility to areas which historically have high visitation,” said Evan Smith, President and CEO of Discover Newport. “Other American cities utilize similar programs which have helped them improve circulation and congestion challenges. Discover Newport is pleased to support this collaborative program in an effort to inspire people to park & ride.” 

“We are extremely excited about the plans presented from RIPTA regarding the continuation of the free shuttle to our beaches and other iconic sites,” said Newport Mayor Jeanne-Marie Napolitano. “The newest fleet of smaller electric buses will benefit our community’s health and environment now and in the future. Newport thanks both RIPTA and the Episcopal Diocese for their support of this invaluable program.” 

“The beauty of this program is that it connects people with the beaches and attractions of Newport while also reducing traffic and the accompanying pollution,” said The Right Reverend W. Nicholas Knisely. “We are happy to support this effort.” 

Passengers can hop on and off at RIPTA bus stops along Routes 67 and 68 at no charge. Schedules will be available at RIPTA.com and at the Newport Visitor Information Center located at 21 Long Wharf Mall. For more information visit RIPTA.com/Newport or call 401-781-9400. 

For more information on RIPTA’s programs and services, visit RIPTA.com or call 401-781-9400.