Rhode Island Public Transit Authority

The board introduced new members and reviewed the 2026 meeting schedule. The meeting included a session of the Pension Benefit Subcommittee to evaluate and approve multiple pension benefit requests for employees. Additionally, an executive session was held to discuss matters permitted by law, which concluded with a vote to seal the minutes of that session.

The board conducted an election process for the position of Chairperson and convened as a Pension Benefit Subcommittee to review and approve several pension applications for Local 618 and 618A employees. Additionally, a review of the draft pension audit was presented by external auditors for discussion, and the meeting concluded with an adjournment.

The Board discussed and received updates on several strategic initiatives, including the development of a new strategic plan, fare policy adjustments, the transition of Flex service zones to an on-demand model, and upcoming improvements to the RIde paratransit program. The Board also reviewed and considered for approval the award of a contract to Swiftly for a transit analytics software platform to enhance operational data and passenger information services.

The Board meeting agenda included the election of officers, an executive session regarding collective bargaining and litigation, and the presentation of the CEO report covering key initiatives, ridership, budget, and safety data. The board reviewed and discussed the renewal of commercial property insurance, general liability policies, and excess umbrella liability insurance. Additionally, members discussed the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan, the West Exchange Driver Comfort Station replacement, and updates from the data team.

The board meeting focuses on the convening of the Pension Benefit Sub-Committee to review and act upon multiple pension benefit requests submitted by former, deceased, and active employees. These requests involve late pension applications for various staff members including bus operators, a mechanic, and a stockroom clerk.