We’re doing something different here … going for coffee with some of Rhode Island’s key business, civic and elected leaders. Why? To experience our public transit system together, first-hand, and to shine a light on the outsized role that it plays in so many statewide priorities. From housing production and economic development to our environment, public health, and to saving people money, investing in transit is a big a win for Rhode Island.
Stay tuned for who’s riding next!
Rhodies in the know understand that public transit offers numerous community benefits, starting with economic development. You’d be hard-pressed to name a city or metro region with a competitive, vibrant and thriving economy that doesn’t also have a robust and well-used transit system – the two go hand in hand. A quality public transit system also plays a vital role in supporting transit-oriented development (TOD), where new housing, jobs and services are within easy reach and spur local business growth, revitalizing Main Street corridors, creating jobs, and attracting private investment. It also reduces traffic congestion and climate emissions, helping to clean our air and meet our state’s ambitious environmental goals. And, since all transit passengers are also pedestrians, transit builds more physical activity into our daily routines—a win for public health.
Ultimately it’s about the freedom of mobility for all of life’s essentials – getting you where you’re going, when you need to get there, safely, conveniently, affordably and with dignity. And, it’s about strengthening Rhode Island as a place to live, learn, work, and thrive for people at every stage of life and income level.
