Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0632

Introduced
3/7/25  
Refer
3/7/25  
Report Pass
4/3/25  

Caption

SENATE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR, THE DIRECTOR OF THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (RIDOT), AND THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO EXPLORE INCREASING THE MASSACHUSETTS BAY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY'S (MBTA) EVENING SERVICE TO THE WICKFORD JUNCTION/PROVIDENCE/STOUGHTON LINE ON WEEKDAYS AND INITIATING A WEEKEND SCHEDULE

Impact

The passage of S0632, while a resolution rather than a binding legislative bill, could have significant implications for state transportation policy and public transit accessibility. Enhanced service on the MBTA could promote greater use of public transit, potentially leading to decreased traffic congestion on major highways such as Route 4 and I-95. This aligns with broader goals of promoting sustainable transportation solutions and could encourage more residents to utilize public transit for their commuting needs.

Summary

Bill S0632 is a Senate resolution aimed at improving public transportation services in Rhode Island, specifically through increased service on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) evening line connecting Wickford Junction, Providence, and Stoughton. The resolution requests the Governor and the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) to explore the feasibility of enhancing this service on weekdays and establishing a weekend schedule. This initiative is designed to address the need for better commuting options in the region, particularly to alleviate road congestion and reduce environmental footprints associated with personal vehicular travel.

Contention

While there were no overt points of contention documented in the provided materials, the implications of increased public transportation services may lead to discussions regarding funding and the prioritization of transportation initiatives. Stakeholders may differ on the balance between investing in expanding public transportation versus other infrastructure projects. Additionally, concerns about ridership demand and the effectiveness of new services in truly reducing congestion and environmental impact could arise in future discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7136

Enables the Rhode Island public transit authority (RIPTA) to work with the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) to allow commuter rail passes to be used as dual passes for both RIPTA and MBTA.

RI S2294

SENATE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON THE TECHNICAL AND ECONOMIC OUTCOMES OF DECARBONIZING RHODE ISLAND BY 2030

RI S0205

Senate Resolution Respectfully Requesting The Department Of Administration To Conduct A Study On The Technical And Economic Outcomes Of Decarbonizing Rhode Island By 2030

RI S0622

Senate Resolution Respectfully Requesting Information And Guidance From The Rhode Island Department Of Human Services (dhs) In Conjunction With The Rhode Island Department Of Corrections (doc) On Current And Potential Services And Programs For Transitioning Females In The Criminal Justice System Through Pre- And Post-release

RI H5125

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority

RI H5527

House Resolution Respectfully Requesting The Department Of Administration To Conduct A Study On The Technical And Economic Outcomes Of Decarbonizing Rhode Island By 2030

RI H6164

House Resolution Respectfully Requesting Information And Guidance From The Rhode Island Department Of Human Services (dhs) In Conjunction With The Rhode Island Department Of Corrections (doc) On Current And Potential Services And Programs For Transitioning Females In The Criminal Justice System Through Pre- And Post-release

RI S1122

Senate Resolution Congratulating Aimee Couto On Being Named The 2024 "rhode Island Teacher Of The Year" By The Rhode Island Department Of Education

RI H7774

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $78,000,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND TRANSIT AUTHORITY (RIPTA) (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $78,000,000 to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority.)

RI S3157

SENATE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING HEALTHSOURCE RI (HSRI) TO CONVENE A WORKING GROUP TO STUDY THE ISSUE OF AFFORDABILITY OF COVERAGE IN THE RHODE ISLAND HEALTH INSURANCE INDIVIDUAL MARKET AND TO PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE DESIGN OF A STATE-BASED PROGRAM TO PROVIDE AFFORDABILITY ASSISTANCE TO RHODE ISLANDERS ENROLLED IN PLANS THROUGH THE HSRI EXCHANGE

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.