RIPTA Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center Passenger Facility

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee, members of the state’s congressional delegation and general assembly, FTA, and municipal leaders recently celebrated the start of construction on a new passenger amenity building at the Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center. 

The new, 2,600-square-foot facility will include public restrooms, driver restrooms and break room, a waiting area with seating and real-time passenger information screens, a Pawtucket Police sub-station, and a security office. RIPTA will also have a staffed customer service window. 

“We are thrilled to break ground on this new passenger facility at the Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center, which will greatly enhance the experience for our riders,” said Christopher Durand, RIPTA interim chief executive officer. “This project reflects our commitment to providing a safe, convenient, and modern transit hub for both bus and rail passengers. We’re grateful for the support from Governor McKee and our federal, state, and local partners who are making this vital improvement possible for our riders.” 

Governor McKee allocated $5 million for the construction of the facility within his FY23 budget. Construction is expected to be completed in late fall/early winter 2026. 

“We’re taking another step forward in creating a more convenient, passenger-centered experience here at the Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center,” said Gov. McKee. “This enhancement of the transit center, combined with the constriction of the Tidewater stadium and investments we’ve made to create more housing in the area, are helping us create a hub of activity, community, and economic opportunity that will benefit Blackstone Valley for generations to come. I was proud to include funding for the amenities building in my FY23 budget and I thank our congressional delegation, Mayor Grebien, Mayor Rivera, RIPTA, and all the partners that supported this project to help us better serve Rhode Islanders.” 

“Over the last two decades, I helped deliver $43 million in federal investments to complete the state-of-the-art Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center and improve transit connectivity,” said Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), a senior member of the Appropriations Committee. “This new facility will complement the transit center, offer more amenities, and help spur further economic development.”