The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) will reallocate $100,000 in funds previously used for private security to increase the presence of Providence police officers and Downtown Improvement District (DID) safety ambassadors in Kennedy Plaza.
In recent months, the city of Providence has increased the presence of Providence Police Department officers in Kennedy Plaza during high traffic times.
“With these additional investments, we are making downtown safer and a more welcoming place for the many residents, businesses, students, riders and visitors that pass through it each day,” said Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “Together, we are creating a safer downtown and as a city, we will continue to expand our partnerships with community organizations to provide better enforcement and outreach here and in other neighborhoods. I want to thank Gov. [Daniel] McKee and RIPTA for their commitment to this important work.”
“The safety of our riders, whether on board or at a transit center, is a priority for RIPTA,” said RIPTA CEO Scott Avedisian. “This partnership will increase DID safety ambassadors and police presence, deter crime and, hopefully, grow rider confidence in our transit system.”
