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The new transit center would:
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) Board of Directors voted on January 30, 2024 to approve a contract with Next Wave Rhode Island Partners for Phase 1 of a public-private partnership (P3) to design and construct a new transit center in Providence.
RIPTA’s contract with Next Wave Partners differs from a traditional construction bid. Using a progressive P3 model, RIPTA and Next Wave Partners will work together in two phases to complete the new transit center, a common model for larger infrastructure projects. RIPTA will be designing and developing the transit center alongside Next Wave and opening each stage of the process to public input. This approach will ensure RIPTA has input at all stages of the development and can access the private-sector funding and expertise needed to successfully deliver a project of this scale.
In the first phase, RIPTA and Next Wave Partners will complete site studies and assessments, engage with the public, seek permitting and any third-party approvals, and develop 30% and 60% conceptual designs. Following input and development of designs, Next Wave will develop cost estimates for the project, as well as financial structuring and advising. Upon successful completion of the first phase of the project, the parties would negotiate a contract for a second phase of the contract for financing and constructing the project. We estimate Phase 1 to occur over the next year and a half.
In the coming months, RIPTA and Next Wave Partners will launch a robust public comment period to gather stakeholder input for designs for the new transit center.
Request for Proposals: Issued on January 17, 2023. Responses were due April 17, 2023.
Public Meetings and Presentations: RIPTA and RIDOT held virtual and in-person meetings for the public to submit their input on the development of this new transit facility.